The Mets added a veteran defensive presence to their roster depth on Monday.
Cristian Pache, regarded mostly for his range and strong arm, reached an agreement with the club on a minor league contract, an industry source confirmed.
Pache, 27, spent last season in Triple-A for the Diamondbacks after playing for three organizations the previous year. Pache will receive an invite to spring training.
It’s likely the Mets view Pache in the same light as Jose Siri, who was acquired last offseason to give the team depth behind another defensive specialist in Tyrone Taylor. But Siri spent most of the season on the injured list rehabbing a fractured left tibia and was released by the club after returning in August.
Pache, whose career began with the Braves, posted a .200/.273/.279 slash line with one homer and 16 RBIs with the Phillies, Orioles and Marlins in 2024.
The Mets signed Cristian Pache. Getty Images
As it stands, the Mets have Taylor and prospect Carson Benge as center field possibilities for next season.
The Mets have a glaring vacancy in left field, following the trade that sent Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers for Marcus Semien. Jeff McNeil (who is still a possibility to be traded) remains as a utility option who can play all three outfield positions in addition to second base.
