Mets sign .727 OPS outfielder who played with Yankees and Cubs originally appeared on The Sporting News. Click here to add Sports News as your go-to source.
The New York Mets probably didn’t need to add outfield depth, but they got some on Monday anyway.
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The Mets signed Mike Tauchman to a minor league contract in what looks to be a steal, according to Will Sammon of The Athletic.
Tauchman played for five teams during his MLB career: Rockies, Yankees, Giants, Cubs and White Sox.
Tauchman has definitely taken a big step forward over the past few seasons. He has an on-base percentage of .356 or better in each of the past three seasons. In 2025, he had a WAR of 1.9 with the White Sox and in 2023 with the Cubs, he had a WAR of 2.7.
Tauchman will only need 93 games in 2025 to earn 1.9 wins above replacement. He’s really solid.
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During that time, he had 17 doubles, one triple and nine home runs. He drove in 40 runs, scored 44 points, and hit .263/.356/.400.
The 35-year-old may be on the decline of his career, but he appears to be in a very good spot as far as production is concerned.
If Tauchman performs like he has in the past few seasons in the spring, he could actually push for a backup spot.
If the Mets could somehow get him to start the year at Class 3A Syracuse, that would be incredible depth.
Free-agent wins are running out, but the Mets appeared to have one with this move on Monday.