Some people were born to play baseball. Others were born to add personality to a clubhouse. Jesse Winker? He’s a rare breed who manages to do both—often while cracking jokes that leave teammates either in stitches or wondering if he’s serious. The Mets re-signed the affable outfielder to a one-year, $8 million deal, complete with a $1 million signing bonus. That’s a lot of cash for a guy whose bat flips are as smooth as his left-handed swing. At 31, Winker is coming off a whirlwind 2024 season, splitting time between Washington and New York before turning on the postseason charm with a .318 average, a couple of triples, and enough walks to make even the ghost of Ted Williams nod in approval.
“Jesse had an immediate impact,” Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns said in the press release, clearly understating the fact that Winker’s bat and clubhouse antics might’ve single-handedly saved a few late-season nerves in Flushing. Winker himself, who took questions in a Zoom availability this afternoon, had plenty to say about his return.
Jesse’s offseason journey back to the team began with a clear and simple goal: he wanted to stay. As he explained, “After the year ended, I made it pretty clear I wanted to stay. (Hey Pete, that's the way it's done, just saying ) Early in the offseason, the free agency process went through its phases, but really after Christmas, things started picking up. The conversations became more serious, and thankfully my agent, Casey Close, made it happen.” Of course, there was plenty of gratitude for the Mets organization too, with Jesse offering a heartfelt thanks to the team's leadership for trusting him to return. “I’m looking forward to it,” he added, and you could feel the sincerity.
When asked what made him so determined to stick around, Jesse didn’t hesitate: “Honestly, everything. The overall experience was incredible. How they treated my family was amazing, and baseball-wise, it was the most fun I’ve ever had.” That’s the kind of testimonial that makes you wonder if the Mets should put it on a billboard. (And send the audio to Pete, again just saying) Jesse spoke about the unique satisfaction of being part of something bigger than himself, describing it as “addicting” and a feeling he wanted to chase again and again. (Yeah, Yeah you know what I'm going to say already..Pete are you listening )
As for his role this season, Jesse expects more of the same. He emphasized his readiness to do whatever the team asks, with a clear sense of pride in representing both the organization and the city. “Whatever’s asked of me, I’m ready to do it. I’m thrilled for the opportunity,” he said. There’s no ego with Jesse, just an appreciation for being part of something special.
Naturally, the conversation turned to the Mets’ busy offseason, and Jesse didn’t hold back his excitement about the new additions. “Getting Juan Soto is huge,” he said with a grin. “And everyone else—Frankie, Clay Holmes, Sean—it’s a really talented team. It’s going to be fun to be a part of.” That sense of “unfinished business” also looms large after last year’s near-miss at the World Series. “Anytime you come that close, you’re always going to want to give it another shot,” Jesse explained. “You never know how close you’ll get again, so it’s precious.”
One particularly interesting wrinkle in the conversation was Jesse’s openness to playing first base if needed. While it’s not his primary position, he’s grown increasingly comfortable there, thanks in part to a rehab assignment two years ago that unexpectedly ignited his interest in the role. Reflecting on that experience, Jesse shared, “It gave me a new perspective and a big-time appreciation for infielders and everything they go through on a daily basis.” The assignment also pushed him to think differently about his career. “Up until then, I hadn’t really played first base, but I kind of felt like, man, maybe I should have been playing this a long time ago—at least as a tool in the bag,” he admitted.
Jesse also revealed that the idea has been floated before, noting, “We discussed it a little bit last year. I may have even taken ground balls there at some point—maybe in Arizona—just kind of showing that I could work there.” That willingness to adapt is rooted in his understanding of how defensive flexibility can increase his value to the team. “The more positions you play, the more valuable you are. If you can go play there, maybe give a guy a day off, you’re helping the team.”
Although first base isn’t part of his regular routine, Jesse’s team-first mindset shines through. “If I’m asked to go play first, I’ll put my best foot forward and give it everything I have,” he said. His enthusiasm for learning and willingness to step outside his comfort zone make it easy to root for him. Whether in the outfield or flashing some new skills at first base, Jesse is ready to contribute wherever the team needs him most.
Jesse also reflected on his transformation from “villain” in the eyes of Mets fans to a beloved member of the team. “I leaned on my teammates and the coaching staff when I came over at the deadline, and the fan base carried us,” he said. “It’s a special city and a special place. Hopefully, we can make it happen again this year.”
And then, of course, there was the inevitable praise for Juan Soto, a player Jesse called “one of the best hitters in baseball, if not the best.” Jesse’s enthusiasm for playing alongside Soto and the rest of the talented roster was palpable. “It’s going to be so much fun to watch,” he said, his voice tinged with the excitement of a kid on Christmas morning.
As the Zoom wrapped up, Jesse expressed his gratitude once more and signed off with the same warmth and optimism he brought to the entire conversation. The city and its fans are ready to cheer him on again, and Jesse is ready to make good on that faith. For a team looking to make this season special, having Jesse back feels like one big step in the right direction.
Catch Jesse Winker and other current and former Mets players at Amazing Day this Saturday at Citi Field! General admission tickets are sold out, but VIP tickets are still available. Don’t miss this incredible event—visit Mets.com for more information!
Here is the complete zoom :
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