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Mets Sign Gold Glove Outfielder After Independent League Stint

The Mets made an interesting move on Tuesday as they signed former Boston Red Sox center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. to a minor league deal.

By Nicholas Rome

May 28, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals right fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. (41) is unable to make the catch during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
May 28, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals right fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. (41) is unable to make the catch during the eighth inning against the Washington Nationals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports / Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports
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The New York Mets are currently 51-48 and if the playoffs were to start today, they'd be the final team in the NL Wild Card.

The biggest question has been; will the Mets buy or sell as players like Pete Alonso, JD Martinez, Luis Severino, and Harrison Bader among others are slated to hit the open market this winter?

The Mets made a subtle move Tuesday that could have a ton of upside, signing former Red Sox center fielder Jackie Bradley Jr. Bradley last played in the MLB in 2023 with the Kansas City Royals, where he put up a .133/.188/.210 slash line in 43 games before being released.

Bradley Jr. has played for the Long Island Ducks, becoming the ninth player from the organization signed this season. He's one step closer to the big leagues as he'll join the Mets' Triple-A team in Syracuse.

This move could have a ton of upside for the Mets and comes with zero risk attached. This year, Bradley has been an offensive powerhouse at the plate, and if he can carry over his improved hitting skill he could be a plug-and-play piece for the Mets.

Even if Bradley Jr.'s ability at the plate doesn't translate for the Mets, they're getting a Gold Glove outfielder that gives them insurance should Bader get injured or as a defensive replacement in the postseason.

Jackie Bradley Jr. Comes With One Extra Positive

As the Mets finish this season, all eyes will be on the future, as Steve Cohen never intended to compete for a World Series this season.

The Mets' fanbase will tell you, there is no one they'd rather steal away more than Yankees outfielder Juan Soto. The Mets now have an unexpected connection with Soto, as he trained with Bradley Jr. this offseason to become a better fielder.

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