The New York Mets have extended a non-guaranteed contract offer to a familiar face, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The team is considering bringing back veteran outfielder Mark Canha, who remains a productive bat despite a slow market for position players over 32. A consistent offensive contributor, he has posted an above-average OPS+ for seven straight seasons and could provide valuable depth for several teams.
Mets Have Shown Interest in Mark Canha
Canha, 36 in February, batted .242/.344/.346 with seven home runs and 42 RBI in 125 games for the Detroit Tigers and San Francisco Giants in 2024. His 99 OPS+ was his lowest since the inconsistent 2017-18 seasons when he underwent hip surgery and logged time in Triple-A. He played for the Mets from 2022 until the middle of the 2023 season, when he was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers. Canha hit .259/.359/.395 in 229 games while spending the majority of his time in left field. He also played center field, right field, third base and first base for the Mets.
If brought back on a non-guaranteed deal, he would be fighting for a roster spot during spring training. As it stands heading into camp, the Mets bench will likely include backup catcher Luis Torrens, outfielder/designated hitter Jesse Winker, one of Jose Siri or Tyrone Taylor and outfielder Starling Marte. According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets bench lacks a backup utility infielder, which the Mets are on the hunt for.
Canha may not be viewed as a game-changer, which likely explains the Mets’ non-guaranteed offer. However, his strong numbers against left-handed pitching (.275/.380/.394) compared to right-handers (.229/.330/.327), along with his defensive versatility, make him a valuable depth piece.
Beyond a potential Canha reunion, Heyman reports that the Mets are pursuing right-hander Dylan Cease. They’re also exploring the possibility of adding his rotation mate, Michael King, as they look to bolster their pitching staff.
Main Photo: © Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
The post Mets Exploring Reunion with Experienced Outfielder appeared first on Last Word On Baseball.