The New York Mets have acquired veteran outfielder Jesse Winker from the Washington Nationals in exchange for right-hander Tyler Stuart, the team announced on Sunday.
Winker expressed his enthusiasm for the move, stating, “I’m excited. I’m going to be a part of the great team that’s been winning a lot. It’s a wonderful opportunity, and then obviously I’m extremely thankful for everybody here, the opportunity to come and play and play every day. And I’m so thankful for (general manager Mike Rizzo) and (manager) Davey (Martinez) and everyone, They really took a chance on me. And I feel like I owe them a lot for that. So I’m grateful,” according to The Associated Press.
Winker, who joined the Nationals on a minor-league contract in the offseason, has experienced a notable resurgence in his offensive performance in 2024. The 30-year-old outfielder has recorded 11 home runs, 45 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases with a .793 OPS in 101 games this season. He has particularly excelled against right-handed pitchers, hitting 10 of his 11 home runs and achieving an .840 OPS.
In a 2022 game against the Mets as a member of the Seattle Mariners, Winker praised Citi Field and Mets fans, saying, “I’m going to be honest with you, I love (Mets fans). They are an amazing group of people. They are very passionate about their team and their city.”
With the Mets, Winker is expected to see playing time in left field and as a designated hitter.
To accommodate Winker on the 40-man roster, the Mets have transferred right-hander Kodai Senga to the 60-day injured list. Senga, who suffered a high-grade calf strain during his season debut on Friday, is anticipated to miss the remainder of the regular season.
Tyler Stuart, the player traded to the Nationals, has posted a 3.96 ERA and a 9.6 strikeouts per nine innings rate in 17 Double-A starts this season.
