Mets Swing a Deal to Land Rays Outfielder

Mets Swing a Deal to Land Rays Outfielder

The New York Mets are adding outfielder Jose Siri from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for right-handed reliever Eric Orze, as reported by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. Both players are currently on the 40-man roster, meaning the trade won’t impact Rule 5 roster decisions for either team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Jose Siri, who served as the Rays’ starting center fielder in 2023, brings power to the Mets’ lineup with 25 home runs last season. However, his batting average of .222 highlights his aggressive, free-swinging approach, which has remained a challenge over the past two years. In 2024, Siri struck out in nearly 40% of his plate appearances and has a career strikeout rate of 36% in the majors.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Despite his offensive struggles, Jose Siri is an elite defensive outfielder. His speed and arm strength have earned him between 12 and 15 Defensive Runs Saved, depending on the metrics used. Siri is widely regarded as one of the best defensive outfielders in the game, ranking just behind Washington Nationals’ Jacob Young.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the Mets already having Tyrone Taylor as their centerfielder, Jose Siri’s arrival raises questions about playing time. Taylor, a right-handed hitter, posted a better batting average of .248 in his first year with the Mets, which could see him keep the starting centerfield role.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s possible Siri could play behind Taylor, but the Mets may consider shifting one of them to a corner outfield spot. Given Siri’s elite defensive skills, a move to a corner could help maximize both players’ strengths, depending on how the Mets want to balance offense and defense.