The New York Mets have added another bat to their designated hitter fold, as they have signed Ji-Man Choi to a split contract Friday night, SNY reported on X.
The is deal is performed based worth up to $3.5 million if the 32-year-old Choi makes the Mets’ opening day roster. The agreement also includes an invite to spring training.
Choi, who also plays first base, suited up for the Pittsburgh Pirates and San Diego Padres after the Pirates traded him last year. He slashed .163/.239/.385 with six home runs, 13 RBI and 12 runs scored in 117 plate appearances in 39 games between both stops.
If the South Korean does make the team, which is doubtful, he will backup All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso. Plus, Choi’s acquisition will give New York a lefthanded bat off the bench in pinch hitting situations.
Choi’s stat line includes a .236 batting average with 67 longballs, 238 RBI, a .338 OBP and .426 SLG percentage in 525 contests across his eight-year MLB career.
— Jerry Del Priore
NY NJ Sports World/Brooklyn Sports World 