The New York Mets have agreed to a one-year contract with MJ Melendez, a deal worth $1.5 million, including $500,000 in performance incentives, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The agreement is a split contract, paying Melendez a lower salary for time spent in the minors, per The Athletic’s Will Sammon and Tim Britton. The Mets view him primarily as an outfielder, though he could also contribute at first base or serve as an emergency catcher. Melendez is represented by Boras Corporation.
Melendez, 27, struggled during his time with the Kansas City Royals. After breaking camp with the team last season, he was sent to Triple-A in April and returned briefly in July, finishing the year with just five hits in 65 plate appearances. Kansas City non-tendered him after the season instead of paying a projected $2.65 million in arbitration. Across parts of four MLB seasons with the Royals, Melendez posted an 88 wRC+ over 1,652 plate appearances, a disappointing output for a former top-100 prospect.
MJ Melendez (MLB)Melendez Offers Versatility And Depth While Mets Bet On Change Of Scenery
Despite those struggles, Melendez’s Triple-A numbers last season at Omaha were promising: he hit .261/.323/.490 with 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases over 480 plate appearances. His performance and pedigree likely attracted the Mets, who see potential value in his experience and versatility. He also remains arbitration-controlled through 2029 due to his Super Two status.
For the Mets, the one-year deal represents a relatively low-risk gamble, though the team’s luxury tax penalties inflate his cost to approximately $3.15 million. On paper, Melendez provides depth in the outfield while star prospect Carson Benge prepares to take over left field. His versatility could be useful if Benge is not yet ready for a full-time role, though defensive concerns in left field and inconsistent hitting leave some uncertainty about his impact at the major league level.
The Mets are betting on a change of scenery and opportunity to unlock the potential of a former top prospect, adding experienced depth without committing to a long-term investment.
