John Mayberry Jr., Mets finalize deal, Gonzalez Germen DFA'd
The Mets officially announced the signing of outfielder John Mayberry Jr. to a one-year contract worth $1.45 million. The deal also includes a possible $500,000 in incentives based on plate appearances and awards, according to an industry source.
To make room on the roster, righthanded reliever Gonzalez Germen was designated for assignment.
Mayberry gives the Mets a bench bat with a long track record of success against lefthanded pitching, which last season proved to be a major weakness.
Against lefties last season, Mayberry hit .243 with 15 RBI in a season split between the Phillies and Blue Jays. But he’s a career .269/.341/.571 hitter against lefthanders.
Mayberry, who turns 31 on Dec. 21, is the son of former big league outfielder John Mayberry.
Germen, 27, posted a 4.75 ERA in 25 relief appearances last season with the Mets.