Mets free agent flier from Hawaii shares two alma maters with fan favorite player

A tip of the cap depth addition by the Mets we might forget ever happened or maybe we'll be signing the praises of David Stearns.

Chicago White Sox v Oakland Athletics
Chicago White Sox v Oakland Athletics / Michael Zagaris/GettyImages

You’d need a plane ticket or a really strong propeller to visit St. Louis School in Honolulu, Hawaii. It’s the location where Benny Agbayani went to school. It also happens to be the place where there is likely a plaque hanging for Rico Garcia.

While far less accomplished in the majors than Agbayani, Garcia has done what only a handful of human beings can claim to have done: play professional baseball at the highest level.

The Mets will give Garcia an opportunity to return to the majors again in 2025 after a year spent exclusively in Triple-A with the Washington Nationals.

The Mets depth additions continue with Rico Garcia getting his chance in camp

Career paths for Garcia and Agbayani stop after college. Both attended Hawaii Pacific University after graduating from St. Louis School. Agbayani’s last MLB game took place in his age 30 season. Garcia’s age 30 season is coming up in 2025.

The Mets will look to tap into his successful Triple-A season that beyond 20 saves included an awesome strikeout rate of 13 per 9. Improving his control as well by limiting walks to 4.4 per 9, he seems to fit the bill as the type of player the Mets tried to mold last year.

He does come to the Mets with a lack of minor league options which is always a cause for pause. Yacksel Rios, for instance, signed a minor league deal with the Mets last offseason in the same boat. The hard-throwing righty was never much of a consideration for the MLB team. Untrustworthy relievers who’ve struggled during their time in MLB who don’t have options lack appeal. Garcia’s invite to spring training will allow him to showcase himself to the Mets and the rest of the baseball world. Don’t be surprised if there is an opt out in his contract if he is unable to make the team. Keep your jaw from hitting the floor if he does remain and never sees Citi Field in person.

The quiet part of the MLB hot stove generally includes minor deals like this as players weigh their decisions on qualifying offers and whatnot. Fortunately, Garcia doesn’t occupy a 40-man roster spot. A grouping with plenty more turnover on the way, keeping as many available spots open can come in handy when an unexpected opportunity presents itself.

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