Report: Mets Interested In Free Agent Catcher Robinson Chirinos

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The Mets are starting to line up their targets as Major League Baseball’s free agency period is fast approaching.

Based on last season, New York could be looking to improve its bullpen and outfield, but it looks like they might have their eyes on a catcher as well. According to Ken Davidoff of the New York Post, the Mets are interested in Robinson Chirinos.

Chirinos, who is 35-years-old, spent 2019 with the Astros. He was the team’s first-choice catcher and managed 17 home runs and 58 RBIs in 114 games. Chirinos can play defense behind the plate as well, he only allowed four passed balls despite catching some Houston pitchers with nasty stuff.

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Before playing with the Astros, Chirinos had been with the Rangers since 2013. He represented Venezuela during the 2017 World Baseball Classic.

Chirinos’ addition would give the Mets a versatile option at catcher. General manager Brodie Van Wagenen recently told reporters at the MLB GM meetings that the team is expecting to go into the new season with Wilson Ramos as the starter.

There were issues last year when Noah Syndergaard voiced displeasure at throwing to Ramos. He preferred Tomas Nido, who is also in the mix at catcher, if the Mets decide to bring him back.

Davidoff’s report also mentions Drew Butera as an option at catcher. Butera is 36-years-old and only played in 16 games for Colorado in 2019.