The Mets’ acquisition of José Siri is an interesting move, especially in the context of their pursuit of Juan Soto. Siri, a 29-year-old outfielder known for his elite defense and speed, adds depth to the Mets’ outfield and potentially serves as a fallback option or complementary piece depending on how the Soto situation unfolds.
Siri brings strong defensive metrics, including excellent range and a powerful arm in center field, which aligns with the Mets’ potential need to bolster their outfield defense. Offensively, he has shown flashes of power but has been inconsistent, with a career slash line of .224/.281/.426 in parts of four MLB seasons.
The trade of Eric Orze, a minor league reliever, suggests the Mets view Siri as an immediate contributor rather than a long-term project. Orze, while showing promise in the minors, wasn’t seen as an untouchable prospect, making the deal relatively low-risk for New York.
If the Mets land Soto, Siri could serve as a late-inning defensive replacement or insurance in case of injuries. Without Soto, he may compete for a more significant role, particularly if the Mets prioritize run prevention.
The Mets’ acquisition of José Siri offers both short- and long-term value given his three years of team control through arbitration, even though his offensive struggles in 2024 are notable. While Siri hit just .187 with 18 home runs and 47 RBIs for the Rays last season, his raw power and defensive prowess keep him relevant as a contributor. His 2023 performance (.222, 25 HR, 56 RBIs) demonstrates his potential to be a capable power-speed threat if he can refine his approach at the plate.
Eric Orze, a 27-year-old reliever, showed limited upside in his brief MLB stint, allowing 4 runs in just 1.2 innings for a 21.60 ERA. Though he pitched well in AA in 2024, Orze didn’t seem to factor significantly into the Mets’ long-term bullpen plans, making him a reasonable trade piece.
For the Mets, this trade fits multiple scenarios:
If the team acquires Juan Soto, Siri could still be valuable as a defensive specialist or pinch-runner, complementing an otherwise offense-first outfield.
Without Soto, Siri may be positioned as a low-cost center-field option who brings elite defense and occasional power.
Ultimately, the deal reflects the Mets’ commitment to flexibility while keeping their sights set on bigger targets like Soto. If Siri rebounds offensively, his mix of skills and control makes him a bargain.
What Does Siri Bring to The Mets?
José Siri seems primed to fill a valuable role for the Mets, providing elite defense and speed in a capacity similar to what Harrison Bader brought to the team last season. With 16 outs above average (OAA) in 2024, Siri ranked in the 99th percentile for defensive metrics, making him one of the best outfield defenders in the league. His range and ability to track down fly balls will be a significant asset, particularly in late-game situations when preserving a lead is critical.
While his offensive struggles and an uneven success rate on the basepaths (14 steals in 21 attempts in 2024) limit his everyday potential, Siri’s skill set perfectly suits the role of a fourth outfielder. He will likely rotate with Brandon Nimmo, Starling Marte, and Tyrone Taylor, potentially seeing more time in center field when matchups or defensive needs dictate.
The comparison to Bader’s 2024 role highlights Siri’s fit as a versatile option who can fill in when necessary, especially in the wake of any injuries or rest days for the starting outfielders. If he can improve his offensive consistency, his value to the team will only grow. However, even as is, Siri strengthens the Mets’ outfield depth with his defense and late-game utility.
This addition also signals that the Mets are preparing for flexibility while they continue pursuing Juan Soto, as Siri could serve as either a backup to Soto or a complement if the superstar lands in New York.
Mets Pursuing Soto
The Mets’ pursuit of Juan Soto remains a key storyline this offseason, and recent reports suggest growing optimism within the organization about landing the star outfielder. MLB insiders Ken Rosenthal and Jon Heyman both indicate that New York is well-positioned to secure Soto, with owner Steve Cohen seen as the figure most likely to offer the record-setting deal that Soto and agent Scott Boras are seeking.
Soto, coming off a stellar 2024 season with the Yankees where he slashed .288/.422/.596 with 41 home runs and 109 RBIs, is widely regarded as the most coveted free agent of the offseason. His postseason performance—.327 with 4 home runs and 9 RBIs—further cemented his status as a game-changing player capable of delivering in the biggest moments.
Rosenthal’s comments on Foul Territory highlight how Soto’s priority appears to be securing a historic contract, potentially resetting the market for position players. Steve Cohen’s financial resources and willingness to make bold moves give the Mets an edge in the sweepstakes. Meanwhile, Heyman’s report that the Mets are “hopeful” and “optimistic” reinforces the sense that momentum is building toward a deal.
If the Mets successfully sign Soto, he would transform their lineup, joining forces with stars like Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso while solidifying the outfield alongside Brandon Nimmo and Starling Marte. The addition of José Siri provides defensive depth and versatility, ensuring the Mets’ outfield remains strong even as Soto steps into a primary offensive role.
Other teams like the Yankees, Phillies, or a surprise contender could still pose challenges in this pursuit, but the Mets’ confidence and resources make them the frontrunners. If Soto signs with New York, it could mark a seismic shift in the NL East and MLB as a whole.
