Gary Sánchez, Mets reach minor-league deal in hopes of benefits for both sides

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The New York Mets hit the market for a former New York catcher, signing former Yankees All-Star backstop Gary Sanchez to a minor league deal.

Sanchez opted out of his minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants whom he signed with on April 1st. Prior to this, Sanchez spent seven seasons with the New York Yankees where he played majority of his career. He was signed by the Yankees as an international free agent and was ranked seventh overall prospect in the organization. Throughout his career, he was named an all-star twice, 2017 and 2019, along with a silver slugger award winner in 2017.

After on and off injury along with performance decline, the Yankees traded Sanchez in a deal to the Minnesota Twins; joining him was Gio Urshela and coming back was from the Twins was Josh Donaldson, Isaiah Kiner-Falefa, and Ben Rortvedt. In 2022, Sanchez had 419 at bats with 61 RBIs, 16 homeruns, 86 hits, and a .205 batting average. This clearly wasn’t cutting it in the show.

Sanchez as new life with another New York City franchise. He is a work horse and has the drive to continue wanting to play this game at a high level. With the right guidance and improved performance, Sanchez could see the light of the major leagues once again. It will take a batting average well above .205, an on-base percentage well above .282, and a defensively sound showcase behind the dish.

The Mets on the other hand picked up good value for their minor league system. Sanchez is a veteran that will bring veteran presence, experience and insight. His route in this game included various accomplishments and struggles that can inspire and guide the next generation of upcoming Mets. Kevin Parada is the Mets next big prospect catcher and he can definitely take a thing or two from the career of Gary Sanchez. The performance of Sanchez will be in the spotlight as the season moves on.