Ex-Yankees Veteran Linked To Mets As Possible Free Agent Addition

Could the Mets actually pursue the former Yankees utility man this offseason?

The New York Mets will be looking to add to the infield this offseason.

New York got some bad news recently as No. 4 prospect Ronny Mauricio suffered a knee injury and will most of, if not the entire 2024 campaign. Mauricio was expected to get extended playing time this upcoming season and especially see time at third base.

The Mets do have infielder Bret Baty still and he will have an extended role. Although that is the case, New York is expected to add in free agency. One player who has been linked to the Mets is former New York Yankees utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa, according to Metsmerized Online's Jack Markowski.

"Kiner-Falefa is a former Gold Glove winner at shortstop who played every position besides first base in his career and appeared at six of them in 2023 with the New York Yankees, though third base might just be his strongest," Markowski said. "In just over 1200 innings at third, Kiner-Falefa has posted 19 Defensive Runs Saved and 22 Outs Above Average, which includes three of each in 240.1 innings at the position last season.

"To reiterate a previous point, Kiner-Falefa hit just .242/.306/.340 with six home runs and an 82 wRC+ last season. His offensive numbers aren’t incredibly relevant, however, especially in regard to the Mets’ needs and what they are looking for from a bench piece. With Kiner-Falefa’s unique versatility, defensive prowess, and strong base-running, he is a well-rounded player who would immediately step in as a plus-defender at third base and fill several needs for the Mets as they fill the roster."

Kiner-Falefa would be a very intriguing pickup for the Mets. New York has made it known that it likely will be pursuing someone to help out on the edges rather than bringing in a star to take over the position. Kiner-Falefa could provide depth for the Mets all over the field along with just third base and likely wouldn't cost much,