The Mets have made some roster changes recently. They claimed outfielder Ji Hwan Bae from the Pirates and left-hander José Castillo from the Orioles. They also announced that infielder Nick Madrigal has chosen free agency.
Bae, 26, was once a promising player for the Pirates, but he’s had a tough run. In 514 plate appearances over four seasons, he’s hitting .223 with a .294 on-base percentage. However, he’s stolen 37 bases, showing he has some speed. In the minor leagues, he’s been much better, boasting a .306 average with a .390 on-base percentage since the start of 2022. This includes solid numbers in Triple-A this year.
The Mets had challenges in center field this season. Jose Siri was sidelined for most of the year, and Tyrone Taylor struggled to maintain consistency. They brought in Cedric Mullins at the trade deadline, but he didn’t make a significant impact. With Bae’s versatility, he could compete for the center field job in 2026 or provide depth in Syracuse.
Castillo, who turns 30 in January, is no stranger to Mets fans. He bounced on and off the team during the 2025 season and spent time with the Mariners and Orioles before returning to New York. He pitched 32 innings this past season with a 3.94 ERA, showing good ground ball rates, which can be crucial in close games.
Castillo is eligible for arbitration, and projections suggest he might earn around $1.7 million next season. The Mets appear ready to invest in him as part of their lefty relief options alongside A.J. Minter and others.
Madrigal signed with the Mets last year for $1.35 million but faced a setback with a shoulder injury that ended his season. Although the Mets had the option to retain him, they decided to let him go. Other teams also passed on claiming him off waivers. He’s now looking for a fresh start, likely through a minor league deal.
In recent seasons, injuries have shaped many teams’ strategies, and the Mets are no exception. As rosters change and injuries impact player availability, keeping depth on the team becomes essential. The coming season will put these adjustments to the test.
For more detailed insights into team strategies and player statistics, you can check the official MLB site here.
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