The New York Mets have made a move to bolster their outfield, acquiring Jose Siri from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for right-handed reliever Eric Orze, as first reported by Anthony DiComo of MLB.com. Notably, both Siri and Orze are already on their respective teams’ 40-man rosters, meaning this trade won’t impact either team’s considerations for the upcoming Rule 5 draft.
Hey Siri, welcome to New York!
We have acquired outfielder Jose Siri from Tampa Bay in exchange for RHP Eric Orze. pic.twitter.com/gSAImOwVR1
— New York Mets (@Mets) November 19, 2024
Mets Trade for Jose Siri
Siri was the starting center fielder beginning in the 2023 season. He has some pop, as he mashed 25 home runs that year. However, his batting average of .222 reflects a free-swinging mentality that has not improved over the last two years. He struck out in nearly 40% of his plate appearances in 2024 and has a 36% strikeout rate in his major league career. However, Siri is an exceptional defensive outfielder. His speed and arm strength rate him between 12 and 15 Defensive Runs Saved, depending on the statistics viewed. Siri is the best defensive outfielder, behind only the Washington Nationals Jacob Young.
The Mets Crowded Outfield
The Mets’ acquisition of Jose Siri raises questions about the team’s outfield dynamics. With Tyrone Taylor already established as the center fielder, Siri might initially play behind him. Taylor’s impressive first year in New York, boasting a .248 batting average as a right-handed hitter solidifies his position. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean Siri will be relegated to a backup role. The Mets might consider shifting Taylor to a corner outfield spot or having Siri and Taylor share playing time. After all, Harrison Bader, who played significant center field innings for the Mets in 2024, is now a free agent.
Given Siri’s cheaper contract and similar defensive skills to Bader, the Mets might let Bader explore other opportunities.
Main Photo Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
