This morning, the New York Mets announced they have officially signed veteran outfielder Carlos Gomez to a minor league deal with an invitation major league camp. Gomez passed his physical, and after fixing a problem with his visa reported to camp yesterday.
We’ve signed Carlos Gómez (@RealCarlosGomez) to a minor league contract with an invite to major league #SpringTraining. pic.twitter.com/2YcRvVM1p8
— New York Mets (@Mets) March 7, 2019
Gomez made his big league debut with the Mets in 2007, and he told reporters this morning that he’s excited to be back in orange and blue, “It’s a dream, to come back to the team where everything started.”
In a statement to the media, Mets General Manager Brodie Van Wagenen told reporters on Gomez, “Carlos adds additional depth to our outfield. He’s an all-around player who can help offensively, defensively and on the base paths.”
Gomez’s Career Thus Far
Gomez has been a journeyman throughout his twelve-year career. Gomez spent his rookie year with the Mets, but then the next two seasons with the Minnesota Twins.
He then spent six seasons in Milwaukee, and he had his best years of his career with the Brewers, posting MVP numbers in both 2013 and 2014. He then spent two years with the Astros and two years with the Rangers.
Gomez had a pretty solid 2017 season with the Rangers, hitting .255/.340/.462 with 23 doubles, 17 home runs, 51 RBI, and 13 stolen bases over 105 games. He also posted an .802 OPS and 1.7 WAR.
However, the veteran outfielder struggled last season with the Tampa Bay Rays. Though he still played solid defense, over 118 games, he just hit .208/.298/.336 with 15 doubles, nine home runs, 32 RBI, and stole 12 bases.
What Gomez Brings to the Mets
On a minor league deal, this another solid depth addition for the Mets. Gomez is still a serviceable defensive outfielder, and certainly has some solid upside offensively. He also brings speed, and a ton of energy to the locker room. Possibly a return to where it all began could spark a bounce back from last season.
Although, the Mets outfield is currently extremely crowded, and the Mets currently have plenty of options ahead of Gomez on the depth chart.
Aside from utility man Jeff McNeil, who may be used in the infield or outfield, the Mets have four healthy outfield options on the 40-Man roster; Juan Lagares, Keon Broxton, Brandon Nimmo, and Michael Conforto. The rest of camp, Gomez figures to be competing with veterans Rajai Davis and Gregor Blanco for a backup role.
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