6 unsigned NY Mets free agents who could still return for the 2025 season

3) Jesse Winker

Reports of the Mets looking for free agent outfielders might have them circling back to Jesse Winker. An exciting player for the club last August and then again in October (we don’t talk about September), he’s someone who looked good enough to be a bat off the bench, DH candidate, and occasional starter in the corner outfield when the team faces a righty.

Winker’s market hasn’t moved very quickly with teams likely timid to commit anything large to a player who has had some really bad seasons in the recent past. His strong showing with the Washington Nationals last year rebuilt some faith. However, a disappearing act for the Mets down the stretch might’ve turned some raised eyebrows into scowls.

Winker is an imperfect match for the Mets because of the current roster construction. They don’t necessarily need another corner outfielder with Starling Marte around. Trading him would help clear some space and playing time for Winker.

It shouldn’t cost much to sign Winker to a one-year deal. It’s about the best he can hope for in this free agent class even after a productive 2024 season. I’d have my doubts on a return because the Mets have Drew Gilbert as a potential option to take on the role Winker would have anyway.