Jesse Winker makes feelings clear on playing with Juan Soto after re-signing with Mets for $7,500,000

Veteran slugger Jesse Winker has re-signed with the New York Mets on a one-year, $7.5 million, deal for the upcoming season and shared his excitement with the move.

The 31-year-old veteran was traded to New York on deadline day last year and entered free agency at the end of the season. Speaking to SNY reporters after signing with the Mets, Winker talked about playing alongside Juan Soto [6:36]

"Everything he's done speaks for itself, right? This guy's one of the best hitters in baseball if not the best hitter in baseball. Him being left-handed is really cool for me personally, just to be able to watch him go about his daily work and his day in and day out approach.

"Last year, when I was with the Nationals, heard nothing but amazing things about him as a person and player so, it's going to be cool, man. Getting to play alongside him and Frankie is going to be so much fun to watch, and I'm looking forward to it."

Jesse Winker was selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2012 MLB Draft and made his major league debut in 2017. After spending five years in Cincinnati, he had one-year stints with the Seattle Mariners and the Milwaukee Brewers before joining the Washington Nationals in 2024.

However, he was traded to the Mets in the middle of the 2024 season and played a big role in their postseason run to the NLCS. Winker provided a much-needed spark to the Mets lineup last year and enjoyed himself doing so.

He has since made it clear that he wants to return to the team, and negotiations for a return picked up after the December holidays. With the Mets signing Juan Soto this winter, Winker could be another valuable addition to their lineup.

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Mets signing Jesse Winker says he's comfortable playing first base if needed

New York Mets signing Jesse Winker has been primarily known as a designated hitter and an outfielder over his career in the MLB.

However, he spent some time at first base in 2023 while returning from rehab with the Milwaukee Brewers. When asked if he's comfortable playing first base with the Mets, he said:

"I'm definitely comfortable - whatever is asked of me, I'll be ready, and I'll put my best foot forward."

The Mets lineup for the 2025 season is yet to be confirmed, as there are several moving pieces in the mix still. However, Jesse Winker is ready to do whatever is asked of him and is excited to chase the World Series title with the club once again.