Mets Add Austin Barnes for Catcher Depth on Minor Deal

The New York Mets just picked up some experienced depth at catcher, signing veteran Austin Barnes to a minor-league deal. He gets an invite to spring training, too.

Alongside reliever Craig Kimbrel, Barnes brings a low-risk, experience-heavy vibe. The Mets seem to want extra insurance for the grind of a 162-game season.

Mets Add Veteran Insurance Behind the Plate

Catchers rarely make it through a full season without taking some hits. The Mets seem to get that, so they grabbed Austin Barnes as a safety net.

He’s a major-league-tested option who can step in if things go sideways with injuries or performance. Reports say Barnes gets a $1.5 million base if he makes the roster, plus up to $500,000 in incentives.

For a team trying to balance winning now with having enough depth, it’s a sensible move. It’s a little reminder that you can’t have too many catchers.

Why Austin Barnes Makes Sense for New York

Barnes is 36 now, and his reputation isn’t just about the numbers. He spent more than a decade with the Dodgers, carving out a role as a reliable defensive catcher and a respected clubhouse guy.

For a Mets team with playoff hopes, that kind of experience matters. Preparation, game-calling, and working with pitchers count for a lot behind the plate—sometimes more than pure athleticism.

A Look at Barnes’ Career with the Dodgers

Barnes was a fixture in Los Angeles for over ten years, usually as a backup but often trusted in big moments. His defensive skills, especially pitch framing and handling pitchers, got plenty of praise.

He was never meant to carry a lineup offensively, but for a while, he held his own. From 2015 to 2022, Barnes put up steady, if unspectacular, numbers—enough to keep him in the mix as a backup.

Offensive Production and Recent Decline

During that 2015–2022 stretch, Barnes hit 32 homers in 1,357 plate appearances. He posted a .225/.333/.358 slash and a 93 wRC+, which worked fine for a platoon or backup role.

But since 2023, the bat just hasn’t been there. Over the last two seasons, he managed a .217/.283/.272 line and a 57 wRC+, which pretty much cost him his spot with the Dodgers.

Roster Dynamics That Pushed Barnes Out

Barnes’ dip in production happened right as the Dodgers’ roster shifted. Will Smith took over as the everyday catcher, so Barnes saw his opportunities dry up fast.

Plus, the Dodgers added more bats at first base and DH, so they couldn’t move Smith around much. That left even less room for Barnes.

The Prospect Factor and Brief Giants Stint

The Dodgers wanted to promote catching prospect Dalton Rushing, which made things even trickier for Barnes. With younger guys coming up, the veteran got nudged out.

He landed a minor-league deal with the Giants in June but got released by August. That opened the door for his shot in Queens.

How Barnes Fits into the Mets’ Catching Picture

Right now, the Mets plan to go with Francisco Álvarez and Luis Torrens as their main catching duo. Hayden Senger is on the 40-man but will probably start at Triple-A.

Barnes probably heads to Triple-A Syracuse, too. That gives the Mets two experienced catchers ready if they need them.

A Smart Depth Move for a Long Season

Barnes has a clear role here. He brings veteran stability and stays ready for whenever the team calls.

In a season that drags on, you just know injuries and fatigue will pop up. Having an experienced catcher close by? That could matter more than folks realize.

The Mets didn’t sign him for upside. They want to stay prepared, and honestly, Austin Barnes checks that box.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Mets Sign Austin Barnes To Minor League Deal