"Once I found out I was coming here I was extremely excited" - Jesse Winker on his reaction to being traded to the Mets

Fresh after joining the New York Mets, designated hitter Jesse Winker talked about how he was looking forward to the challenge at Citi Field. Winker was traded from the Washington Nationals in a deal that involved sending Double-A pitching prospect Tyler Stuart the other way.

This season, Winker is hitting .256, with 11 home runs and 45 RBIs. The big man is also deceptively quick between the bases, recording 14 steals.

Speaking to SNY shortly after the move, Winker said:

"Once I found out I was coming here, I was extremely excited. [The Mets are] such a great team, playing so well. Obviously I've been in the opposing dugout, so I'm just excited to be a part of it."

With the addition of the left-hander, the Mets have a good option to mix it up against right-handed pitchers, with the added benefit of possibly allowing rests to other important players, keeping one eye on the fast-approaching playoffs.

Mets boss Carlos Mendoza has his say on the impact of the move

The New York Mets manager, Carlos Mendoza, talked about how the trade for Jesse Winker is a much-needed reinforcement as the season's biggest games roll around.

Recalling previous encounters against Winker, Mendoza was quick to appreciate the quality of the player coming into his camp.

“Obviously a lefty bat," Mendoza said (via MLB.com). We’ve seen it a lot, especially when we’ve played the Nationals and the at-bats, the way he controls the strike zone, the power. He’s going to help.”

Speaking about the role he sees Winker having at his new time, he added:

I wouldn't say [Winker is going to be] an everyday player, but he's going to play. I could see him playing corner outfield, DH and pinch hit. He’s going to get a lot of opportunities, especially against right-handed pitching. He’ll be in there a lot.”

Lastly, Mendoza also spoke about how the trade of a quality player such as the former Nationals man will allow him to rest some important players who have played day in and day out for the last few months.

"There's some guys there that we need to take care of, JD Martinez, Iglesias, even guys like Vientos who've been playing everyday."

On the personal side, Winker shouldn't have any problem making friends at his new home. He grew up playing travel ball with Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso while already being good friends with JD Martinez.

All in all, offering versatility to his coach, a good mix of power and plate discipline, and already having good chemistry with a few players, it seems like the New York Mets have the perfect addition to their squad at just the perfect time.