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The Mets are considering former NL MVP Andrew McCutchen for added depth in their outfield, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman.
McCutchen, 36, slashed 237/.316/.384 in 134 games a season ago for the Brewers, posting career lows in on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS. However, he did still hit 17 homers and collect 69 RBIs.
While he used to be a premier center fielder, McCutchen is now really only a corner outfield option, although he did play all three spots for the Brew Crew in 2022. Despite his age, he finished with plus-4 DRS in the outfield a season ago.
The Mets lack any true outfield depth outside of their projected starters in Mark Canha, Brandon Nimmo, and Starling Marte. Jeff McNeil is a capable outfielder but is locked in as the team’s starting second baseman. Darin Ruf played some outfield as well last year, although it’s unclear if he’ll even be on the major league roster on Opening Day. The only other outfielder on the team’s 40-man roster is prospect Khalil Lee. The team did sign speedster Tim Locastro to a minor league deal earlier this week.
In addition to being a fourth outfielder, McCutchen could also be a right-handed DH option for the Mets against left-handed hitters as Daniel Vogelbach is likely only to start against righties. McCutchen is a career .300 hitter against lefties.
Other veteran outfield options besides McCutchen still on the market for the Mets include the likes of Adam Duvall, Tommy Pham, Jurickson Profar, David Peralta, Tyler Naquin, Raimel Tapia, Kole Calhoun, and Lorenzo Cain.
