There is no question that the New York Mets are under a lot of pressure right now. After a disappointing 2025 season that saw them miss the playoffs, the Mets are looking to put together a big bounce-back season in 2026. Due to this, they are continuing to be linked to multiple free agents as the offseason rolls on.
The Mets have brought in some new players this offseason that have the potential to be solid additions to their roster. Among their newcomers include Marcus Semien, Devin Williams, Jorge Polanco, and Luke Weaver. Yet, with the Mets desperately needing to be better in 2026, it is clear that they should not be done making moves this winter yet.
When looking at the Mets’ current roster, it is fair to argue that they could use another impactful outfielder. This is especially the case when it comes to the center field position, as it would benefit them to bring in a proven veteran there.
Because of this, the Mets are now being connected to an intriguing free agent outfielder who would have the potential to be a nice addition to their roster.
Mets Named Potential Fit for Free Agent Outfielder Harrison Bader
In a recent article for ESPN, David Schoenfield discussed a few potential landing spots for a handful of free agents who are still looking for their new homes. Harrison Bader was among the players discussed by Schoenfield, which is understandable when noting that he is among the top outfielders who remain unsigned.
With the Mets needing help at the center field position, they were named a potential landing spot for Bader by Schoenfield.
“Bader is coming off the best offensive season of his career at age 31 after hitting .277/.347/.449 with a 117 OPS+ for the Minnesota Twins and Phillies in 2025, batting a career-high 501 times. He can still run and play center field and brings a lot of energy,” Schoenfield wrote. “The teams listed for him are all near the bottom in projected value from center field.”
Seeing the Mets be named a potential fit for Bader is easy to understand. He would certainly have the potential to be a nice upgrade for them in center and would also give them another veteran player to work with. He is also a player who the Mets already know well, as he played for them just back in 2o24.
Bader is also coming off a strong 2025 season. In 146 games split between the Minnesota Twins and Philadelphia Phillies, he set career highs with 17 home runs, 24 doubles, 54 RBIs, and a .277 batting average. With this, he could give the Mets a nice boost offensively if signed.
Mets Will Have Competition for Bader’s Services
With Bader have a good 2025 campaign and being among the top outfielders still available, there is no question that the Mets will have competition for his services if they target him. Schoenfield named the Los Angeles Angels, Cincinnati Reds, Athletics, and Kansas City Royals as possible fits for Bader.
Yet, with the Mets needing another outfielder, it would make a lot of sense for them to make a big push for Bader. It will be interesting to see if they end up landing him, but the fit looks good on paper.
Mets Linked to Intriguing Phillies Free Agent Outfielder