Ranking the 5 best Mets free agent signings of players born in the Dominican Republic

Mar 18, 2007; Jupiter, FL, USA; New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes (7) throws out St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Scott Rolen (not pictured) at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, FL. The Cardinals defeated the Mets 5-4. Mandatory Credit:Scott Rovak-Imagn Images Copyright © Scott Rovak
Mar 18, 2007; Jupiter, FL, USA; New York Mets shortstop Jose Reyes (7) throws out St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Scott Rolen (not pictured) at Roger Dean Stadium in Jupiter, FL. The Cardinals defeated the Mets 5-4. Mandatory Credit:Scott Rovak-Imagn Images Copyright © Scott Rovak | Scott Rovak-Imagn Images
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4) Juan Lagares

Coming in at number four is outfielder Juan Lagares. Similar to Familia, Lagares was signed by the Mets as a non-draft free agent out of Constanza, Dominican Republic. When his journey first started, he began as a shortstop before he was transferred to the outfield. His major league debut never arrived until 2013. It came against the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that was prime to making the playoffs every year.

During his run at the major league level, he did help the team with his defensive flash in the outfield. As a result of his hard work, he earned himself his first gold glove award in 2014. In 2014 he also had a breakout season in which it would be his best during his time with the Mets. That time he would manage to hit .281 with 24 doubles and 13 stolen bases. The following season, the team decided to lock him on a $23 million deal that would last until 2019. His at-bats did present him a problem leading him to get a bench role.

However, Lagares did play a crucial role in the Mets big playoff run in 2015. In 13 playoff games, he managed to bat .348 along with 8 hits and 7 runs scored. Without Lagares present on the team, New York wouldn't be this far in the playoffs. Along the rest of the way, Lagares time with the Mets was derailed with injuries. Injuries to his quad, hamstring, elbow, toe, and thumb limited him to an average of just 68 games per season. Later in 2019, the Mets have decided to cut ties with Lagares.

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