The Mets have signed infielder Eduardo Nunez to a minor league contract, the club announced Tuesday afternoon.
Nunez will earn $1.25 million — including $750,000 in incentives — if he plays and makes the Mets' Opening Day roster, according to WFAN baseball insider Jon Heyman. Mets infielder Jeff McNeil is expected to serve as the starting third-baseman, especially following the departure of Todd Frazier, but Nunez could become a serviceable backup option in the infield.
The 32-year-old spent the first four years of his MLB career in New York with the Yankees. He tallied 76 RBIs and 10 home runs in 270 games before his time in New York reached its end and was traded to the Minnesota Twins.
Eduardo Nunez is on his way to be with the New York Mets. So let's remember the time he saved Craig Kimbrel and sent the #RedSox to the ALCSpic.twitter.com/zDDHm2tcWc
— Red Sox on CLNS (@RedSoxCLNS) January 25, 2020Nunez was named to the All Star Game in his third season in Minnesota, but struggled to find consistency in the years after, as he became a popular name on the trade front.
He appeared on three different teams since his All-Star nomination, culminated by an underwhelming 2019 season. After he played in 60 games, the Red Sox designated Nunez, who slashed .228 and 20 RBIs for assignment, where he ultimately released.
The Mets also announced the signings of catcher Rene Rivera. The 38-year-old spent two seasons with the Mets before he returned to the organization last season. Pitcher Erasmo Ramirez was signed to a minor-league deal as well.
Position players are set to report to Spring Training in Port St. Lucie on Feb. 16.
