Mets Boost Depth with Jared Young Signing
The New York Mets made a significant move on Monday to bolster their first base depth by signing infielder Jared Young to a one-year deal. This acquisition comes in the wake of the departure of their star slugger, Pete Alonso, who entered free agency earlier this fall. With Young’s versatility and recent strong performances, the Mets aim to fill the void left by Alonso and strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.
Who Is Jared Young?
Jared Young, a 29-year-old Canadian-born infielder, has built a diverse career in both Major League Baseball (MLB) and international leagues. Though he has limited major league experience, his recent performances showcase potential that the Mets are looking to tap into.
Career MLB Stats
- Batting average: .210
- Home runs: 2
- RBIs: 8
- On-base plus slugging (OPS): .725
These stats were achieved in 22 major league games with the Chicago Cubs across the 2022 and 2023 seasons.
Young’s Journey Through Baseball
From the Cubs to the Cardinals
In November 2023, Young was claimed off waivers by the St. Louis Cardinals, where he showed promise at Triple-A Memphis:
- Batting average: .285
- Home runs: 11
- OPS: .917
Despite these impressive numbers, Young was released by the Cardinals in July 2024.
Dominating in Korea
Following his release, Young signed with Korea’s Doosan Bears, where he demonstrated elite performance over 38 games:
- Batting average: .326
- Home runs: 10
- RBIs: 39
- OPS: 1.080
This stint highlighted his ability to adapt to different leagues and perform under pressure, making him an attractive option for MLB teams.
Versatility and Experience
Young brings versatility to the Mets, having played nearly every position in the minor leagues except catcher and center field. However, his primary experience at the major league level has been at first base, where he has logged all 12 of his starts.
His diverse skill set, combined with his ability to play multiple positions, gives the Mets additional options for roster flexibility, particularly in the infield.
Why the Mets Signed Jared Young
The Mets’ decision to sign Young comes as part of their broader strategy to rebuild their roster after a disappointing season and the loss of Pete Alonso. Young’s recent success in Korea, coupled with his solid Triple-A performance, suggests untapped potential that could benefit the Mets.
Key Reasons for the Signing:
- First Base Depth: With Alonso gone, the Mets needed a reliable option at first base.
- Offensive Potential: Young’s .326 batting average and 10 home runs in Korea signal his ability to contribute offensively.
- Versatility: His experience across multiple positions adds depth and flexibility to the roster.
Jared Young’s Background
Young was originally drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 15th round of the 2017 MLB Amateur Draft from Old Dominion University in Virginia. Since then, he has steadily climbed through the ranks, showcasing resilience and adaptability at every level of play.
What’s Next for the Mets and Young?
The Mets’ signing of Jared Young is a low-risk, high-reward move aimed at addressing immediate gaps in their lineup. While Young may not immediately replace Pete Alonso’s star power, his recent performances indicate that he could be a valuable contributor in the upcoming season.
Young’s Potential Role:
- Serve as the starting first baseman.
- Provide depth across the infield with his versatility.
- Offer a left-handed hitting option with power potential.
Final Thoughts
The addition of Jared Young to the Mets’ roster represents an opportunity for both player and team. For Young, it’s a chance to prove himself on baseball’s biggest stage after a breakout stint overseas. For the Mets, it’s a step toward rebuilding a competitive lineup following the loss of Pete Alonso.
With spring training just around the corner, all eyes will be on Jared Young to see if he can translate his recent success into a productive season in New York. As the Mets continue to make moves this offseason, this signing could prove to be a pivotal part of their 2024 campaign.
