NY Mets sign third-generation infielder with a Gold Glove bloodline

These small New York Mets transactions are often easily forgotten because the excitement is like having fresh fruit in the elementary school cafeteria listed as the dessert item. What is there to say about Grae Kessinger that we haven’t already said about anyone else we’ve had to Google to know a thing about?

The Mets have signed this former second-round draft pick of the Houston Astros to a minor league deal. Your typical lighter-hitting, versatile infielder with minimal big league experience joins a weakness on the depth chart.

Kessinger is the latest David Stearns signing to give them some infield options in case of injury. Along with Vidal Brujan who is on the 40-man roster, Christian Arroyo, and Jackson Cluff, the Mets now have a variety of choices to go with that should at least give them some stability on defense in case of a long injury.

The most interesting thing about Grae Kessinger is his family bloodline

Kessinger’s most interesting factoid is probably that he comes from a family of players. We know the Bells from Gus to Buddy to David and Mike. What about the Kessingers?

The first in the family was Don Kessinger. He played 16 seasons, starting with the Chicago Cubs in 1964. He won a pair of Gold Gloves in 1969 and 1970 for a Cubs team that was cursed by a black cat running on the field.

Kessinger wasn’t limited to fielding. He was a six-time All-Star and received MVP votes in his two Gold Glove seasons although the consideration was mild.

Then came Keith. Don’s son played one season for the Cincinnati Reds in 1993. Also as shortstop, his career never took off and injuries were a part of the reason. He did manage to play for the Cubs in the minor leagues late in his career.

All members of the Kessinger Family have been lighter-hitting players with a defensive focus. The one who’ll join the Mets organization for at least a look in the spring is no different.

Is athleticism genetic? Perhaps some elements are. Or maybe the Kessinger Family just spent a lot of time fielding grounders on Thanksgiving.