MLB Network’s John Morosi reports that the Mets and Yankees are among the teams interested in free agent reliever Gio Urshela.
In addition to the New York teams, the Miami Marlins also showed interest in Urshela.
Free agent INF Gio Urshela has drawn interest from the Mets, Marlins, and Yankees, source confirms.
Urshela, 32, posted a .703 OPS in 62 games with the Angels last year. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) February 6, 2024
The 32-year-old’s 2023 season was cut short by a fractured left pelvis he suffered in June.
In his final season, Urshela hit .285/.338/.429 with 13 home runs and 27 doubles in 144 games for the Minnesota Twins in 2022.
If Urshela ends up with one of the New York teams, it’s clear that she will. In the spring, preparation for the bank job will begin.
With Brett Baty struggling and Mark Vientos being used as a pinch hitter, Urshela — if signed — could be an option for the regular third base job.
Meanwhile, the Yankees, who have known Urshela since he was in the Bronx from 2019 to 2021, have settled in all four starting spots barring injuries.
A group of teams looking for outfield depth are eyeing Gio Urshela as a free agent.
Urshela attracted a lot of attention during the offseason, and the Mets and Yankees were often linked to him.
Will Sammon of The Athletic reported on Dec. 31 that both New York teams are interested.
The Yankees know Urshela as well as every other Major League Baseball team.
In his first two seasons with the Yankees, he hit .310/.359/.523 with 27 home runs and 104 RBI in 175 games.
Urshela was traded to the Minnesota Twins in March 2022 as part of the Josh Donaldson deal.
During his only season with the Angels, Urshela hit .299/.324/.374 in 214 at-bats.
The Mets and Marlins could add Urshela as insurance if their third basemen Brett Baty and Jake Burger struggle this season.
The Yankees might want an insurance policy if either DJ LeMahieu or Anthony Volpe don’t perform up to expectations.
Fans reacted as follows:
Urshela wouldn't hurt the Mets any. However, his career numbers (not talking analytics) aren't all that much greater than projected numbers for Vientos, for example (other than BAv).
— El Coyote (@kbo_coyote) February 6, 2024
Oh it’s going to be interesting
— Michael Schiro (@Schirombaseball) February 6, 2024
Cashman better get him perfect depth piece
— Kieran Tracy (@kieran_tracyy3) February 6, 2024
What team would he start on? Thats the team he signs with, Mets give him the opportunity once Baty shows he can’t field again.
— John Lucio (@johnlucio23) February 6, 2024
Cmon Cashman you gotta do something here make the move bring Urshela back to the Bronx
— Ace P (@Acep422) February 6, 2024
Since we aren't getting a vet DH Urshela is who I wanted. 1 year deal. 3rd base insurance, plus can play other positions. Hits LHP very well which is a weakness for us.
— Michael's End Zone 🇺🇸 (@MichaelsEndZone) February 6, 2024
The Mets really aren't pursuing him, and I highly doubt an offer will be made either way.
— Efrain Villalobos (@GodbodeEv) February 6, 2024
I believe those numbers are better than Josh Donaldson’s, right Cashman? 🧐
— J. Morgan (@Jeremy2go) February 7, 2024
Mets gonna outbid ‘cause he’s a former Yankee … and welp, they have a type.
— Seanmo (@seanmohen) February 6, 2024
Why the Mets on him? How many third baseman they need 🤣
— Brandon Lee (@IBeBrandonLee) February 6, 2024
Mets and yanks really going at it hard this off season
— Jon Papa-D (@roc1193) February 6, 2024
