Center fielder Harrison Bader and the New York Mets have agreed to a one-year contract worth $10.5 million, as per sources. Bader’s defensive skills are exceptional, but his batting has been inconsistent and injury issues have plagued him.
The Mets, led by their new president of baseball operations, David Stearns, have signed Bader and Tyrone Taylor to complement their existing outfielders, Brandon Nimmo and Starling Marte.
Bader, 29, had a remarkable 2022 postseason with the New York Yankees, hitting five home runs in nine games.
However, his 2023 season was marred by injuries, and he was eventually waived by the Yankees and picked up by the Cincinnati Reds. Bader has a career batting average of .243, with 59 home runs and 217 RBIs in 635 games.
The Mets, who spent over $450 million in 2023 but failed to make the playoffs, are focusing on the future with short-term deals.
They have signed several players to one-year contracts, including Luis Severino, Jorge Lopez, Joey Wendle, and Michael Tonkin. Bader’s deal was first reported by SNY, and he is expected to provide defensive stability to the Mets’ outfield.
Despite his injuries and inconsistent batting, Bader offers speed and elite defense in center field, making him a valuable addition to the Mets.
His career OPS against left-handed pitching is .824, and he has shown potential in stretches, such as his 2020-21 season, where he hit .258/.327/.457 with 20 home runs. The Mets are hoping that Bader can regain his form and provide a strong defensive presence in the outfield.