How 4 biggest NY Mets free agent departures are performing with their new teams

The Mets signed a handful of notable free agents, but also let a handful go. Heading into June, how are these players doing with their new teams so far into 2025?
Division Series - Philadelphia Phillies v New York Mets - Game 4
Division Series - Philadelphia Phillies v New York Mets - Game 4 | Elsa/GettyImages
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The New York Mets made some big splashes in the free agent market last offseason. However, they also let a handful of integral members of their roster from 2024 sign elsewhere in free agency. MLB Trade Rumors ranked three former Mets in their 2024-2025 top 50 free agents, with a fourth, pretty notable name narrowly being left off their top 50.

Now that we’re just past Memorial Day and approaching June, let’s check in and see how some of the Mets’ best free agents who signed elsewhere are doing so far into 2025.

Updating Mets fans on how top departing free agents are performing with their new teams

Jose Iglesias

The Mets signed Jose Iglesias to a minor-league deal last offseason without knowing the sort of cultural impact he would have on the Mets’ fandom. The veteran infielder was huge for the Mets’ lineup in the second half of the season, batting .337/.381/.448 with a 137 wRC+ through 85 games and 291 plate appearances. He also gave the Mets good defense at second base (+2 defensive runs saved, +1 outs above average) and the hot corner (+4 DRS, +2 OAA). He then tacked on six more hits during the Postseason.

Iglesias was a huge contributor, both on the field and in the clubhouse. He also performed his very own pop song “OMG” after a game, with his song becoming a de facto rally cry for the team. However, despite having such a significant impact on the Mets as a whole, the team opted not to bring back Iglesias despite his interest in a reunion.

Unfortunately, the rest of the league also didn’t show very much interest in Iglesias. It took until March 5 for Iglesias to sign a contract, when he agreed to just another minor-league contract with the San Diego Padres. Iglesias hasn’t been able to carry over the same magic with the bat he had with the Mets last year, slashing just .255/.307/.302 with a 78 wRC+ in 116 plate appearances with the Friars. He also has received negative marks in terms of both DRS and OAA at both middle infield positions, as well as third base.

The Mets look justified in their decision not to bring back Iglesias, although his presence is definitely missed. He was one of the Mets’ most entertaining players in recent years, given his electrifying hitting and fielding, as well as his singing abilities. Iglesias was one of the Mets’ best departing free agents, though MLB Trade Rumors surprisingly didn't agree.