Jay Bruce is projected to return to the New York Mets, inking a three-year contract in the process.
The New York Mets are adding some pop to their lineup, with a familiar face due to return to the Big Apple. According to reports, Jay Bruce is returning to the National League, after spending the conclusion of the 2017 campaign with the Cleveland Indians.
Bruce’s 2017 was productive, where he slashed.254/.324/.508 while slugging 34 home runs and driving in 101 runs — with both the New York Mets and Cleveland Indians. He played well down the stretch for the Indians, including well into the 2017 postseason.
Jay Bruce will be paid $10 million this year, $13 million in 2019-2020, and a $1.5 signing bonus. #Mets
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) January 11, 2018
"Bruce’s $39MM guarantee is the second-largest guaranteed sum to which any position player has agreed this winter."
Beginning his career with Cincinnati Reds, Bruce has the consistency and experience the Mets lacked last season once they traded him to Cleveland. Bruce has earned a spot on three All-Star teams (2011-2012, 2016) and a part of five playoff teams — three with the Reds, one with the Mets, and last season with the Indians.
More from Call to the Pen
- Philadelphia Phillies, ready for a stretch run, bomb St. Louis Cardinals
- Philadelphia Phillies: The 4 players on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore
- Boston Red Sox fans should be upset over Mookie Betts’ comment
- Analyzing the Boston Red Sox trade for Dave Henderson and Spike Owen
- 2023 MLB postseason likely to have a strange look without Yankees, Red Sox, Cardinals
A career outfielder, the Mets have other plans for the power-hitter. It’s likely he will log innings in the outfield, but he’s an insurance policy, of sorts, at first base if Dominic Smith continues his MLB woes. If you are a Mets fan, this deal is a sign of good things to follow.
With the Miami Marlins in full fire sale mode, it’s possible they may ship stars J.T. Realmuto and Christian Yelich in a package deal. It’s unlikely the Marlins will trade the duo in the division, but they are desperate to unload contracts, almost as much as they want out of Miami.
In other rumors, Mike Moustakas could be on his way to the Big Apple, which would be another reliable addition to their 2018 squad. If the Mets can keep their stout pitching staff healthy, they will return to their playoff form next season, especially if offensive reinforcements are on their way.
Next: Alex Cora’s great expectations for 2018
The New York Mets absence from the postseason may last only one season, with the team making moves so far in the 2018 offseason.