Jesse Winker’s reunion with the New York Mets was almost certain, but like any other deal this MLB offseason, how could this come without any twist? Earlier, the rumor mill was potentially confirming that the star outfielder will re-sign for his current team.
However, after signing Juan Soto for a record deal, the Mets were a little active about breaking the bank for one more time. And given the situation, as Will Laws and Nick Selbe of Sports Illustrated reported, Pittsburg Pirates are a new favorite. After a solid comeback season in 2024, Winker has shown he still has a lot to offer. He’s boasting a line of .253/.360/.405 over 145 games.
His ability to get on base regularly has made him an enticing option for teams. These teams need a boost in their lineup. The Pirates have long struggled with offensive production. They could certainly use a player like Winker in one of their corner outfield spots. Their consonant quest is to seek ways to improve their roster and infuse some life into their batting order.
Sometime when life feels a little boring I think about 2024 Postseason Jesse Winker. pic.twitter.com/DLzjazDoP1
— MetsMuse (@MetsMuse) January 9, 2025
But it is not what the reports told us. The other side of the story has also started making sense. New York is grappling with a tough decision when it comes to retaining Winker. After creating a fantastic atmosphere in the clubhouse and surprising everyone by making it to the NL Championship Series, losing Winker would sting. However, with the addition of superstar Soto, the Mets find themselves in a bit of a tight spot. There’s just not enough room for another outfielder like Winker, who might need designated hitter at-bats.
Also Read: Pete Alonso Rumors: Mets Could Reunite With Star Slugger For A Short Term 8 Figure Amount
Jesse Winker Was Earlier Linked With Cleveland Guardians
While the Mets were in an uncertain state of mind for Winker’s second span at the camp, he was being linked with a couple of more franchises. He was linked with the Cleveland Guardians as a potential suitor. The Guardians were trying to shake things up in their lineup during a slow start to free agency, and the NY-born lefty was expected to be a solid option for them.
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Source: Mets are making a serious push to bring back Jesse Winker.
— Mets Batflip (@metsbatflip1) January 10, 2025
After bringing in Carlos Santana to fill the void left by Josh Naylor’s trade, Cleveland has yet to make a significant offensive upgrade. Santana’s signing is more of a sideways move than an improvement, which is why it’s becoming increasingly urgent for the Guardians to find another slugger. James Mastrucci from Away Back Gone highlights Winker as a potential fit. While he may not be a game-changing star, Winker could certainly help add some much-needed depth to their offense.
However, Winker’s performance was a plus for him as his resume was for any team eyeing to sign him. Last season, he hit .253 with a .360 on-base percentage and 14 home runs in over 500 plate appearances. He had a great knack for getting on base, which he maintained throughout his career with a .367 OBP. He might not return to the level of his All-Star season back in 2021, but adding Winker could provide the Cleveland lineup with the stability it sorely needs.
