A handful of former New York Mets players remain unsigned deep into the offseason, and unless an opportunity surfaces soon, retirement could become their only realistic option.
While Max Scherzer managed to secure an incentive-heavy deal to return to Toronto, several other veterans haven’t been as fortunate. Free agency has been particularly unforgiving this year, even for players who aren’t necessarily at traditional retirement age. For some, the choice may come down to accepting a minor league deal or stepping away from the game altogether.
1) Justin Turner
At 41, Turner’s production last season likely didn’t inspire much interest around the league. After slashing .219/.288/.319 with three home runs for the Cubs, a guaranteed major league deal appears unlikely. Now limited defensively to first base, Turner may have to accept that his playing days are nearing the end.
Although he earned $6 million last offseason, comparable role players have since reset the market at levels Turner probably can’t reach. Even with a respectable 2024 split between Toronto and Seattle, the current market suggests that if a deal comes at all, it would be modest and likely non-guaranteed.
2) Tommy Pham
Despite being a Gold Glove finalist and posting a steady .245/.330/.370 line last year with Pittsburgh, Pham remains unsigned. Approaching 38, he continues to deliver similar offensive output annually while providing defensive versatility.
Yet teams have been hesitant to commit long-term, and Pham has frequently been traded in recent seasons. Though he hasn’t shown clear signs of decline, he may once again need to settle for a minor league arrangement just to keep playing.
3) Marcus Stroman
Since being released by the Yankees after posting a 6.23 ERA in limited action, Stroman has generated little buzz in free agency. At 34, he’s not especially old for a pitcher, but performance concerns and his outspoken personality may be factors in the lack of interest.
A bullpen role could potentially extend his career, but it’s unclear whether Stroman would accept anything less than a guaranteed major league opportunity. Without flexibility, his time in the league could quietly come to a close.
4) Starling Marte
Marte provided solid offensive contributions for the Mets in 2025 but has become increasingly limited. Now primarily a designated hitter with diminished speed and defensive value, he may struggle to find a roster fit.
Turning 37 and with recent injury concerns, Marte likely would need to accept a minor league contract to continue playing. The longer he remains unsigned, the more it appears that his final season may already be behind him.
5) Jose Iglesias
Iglesias enjoyed a surprising resurgence with the Mets in 2024 but followed it up with a quieter season after signing a minor league deal with San Diego. Now 36, he finds himself once again without a contract.
Given his age and recent production, teams may only view him as a depth option on a non-guaranteed deal. Fortunately for Iglesias, he has interests beyond baseball, giving him options if another opportunity doesn’t materialize.
For these five former Mets, the clock is ticking. Unless a team comes calling soon, retirement may no longer be a choice but a necessity.
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