David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports
The Mets have signed Tommy Pham, sources tell MMO’s Michael Mayer. The deal is for one year, $6 million, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman.
Pham was one of the few remaining right-handed hitters still available on the free-agent market that was expected to sign major league deals. The Mets were reportedly in on Andrew McCutchen, Trey Mancini, and Adam Duvall earlier in the off-season, but all have signed elsewhere.
Pham had a lackluster season last year between the Reds and the Red Sox. He recorded an 87 OPS+ and slugged .374. However, Pham did hit lefties well in 2022 and recorded a 119 OPS+ and .784 OPS, which is an area the Mets were looking to improve on.
While Pham may not have the same offensive prowess as some of the other recently-signed free agents, he can play both corner outfield positions at an above-average rate. With the Reds in the first half of 2022, Pham recorded three defensive runs saved in left field.
Pham will presumably be a fourth outfielder for the Mets. He is blocked in left field by Mark Canha and it’s hard to see him starting over Brandon Nimmo and Starling Marte. Pham could also be a factor at DH, although that position is cluttered with Daniel Vogelbach, Brett Baty, Francisco Álvarez and, as of now, Darin Ruf all in the mix for playing time.
