Mets Reportedly Interested in Former Astros Catcher Robinson Chirinos in Free Agency
By Scott Rogust
When it comes to the New York Mets, you have to expect the unexpected, especially during hot stove season.
According to Ken Davidoff of the New York Post, the Mets have reached out to former Houston Astros catcher Robinson Chirinos in the early stages of free agency.
Mets Have Interest In Robinson Chirinos https://t.co/G4c6vqvua0 pic.twitter.com/IC5Ah9w1BS
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) November 20, 2019
Remember this time last year, the Mets signed hot catching commodity Wilson Ramos. The 32-year-old's deal expires after this season, however, so maybe the Mets are looking to the future at the position.
Chirinos is coming off a strong season with the American League Champion Astros, where he slashed .238/.347/.433 with 17 home runs and 58 RBI. More importantly, Chirinos only allowed four passed balls in 114 games, showing his value defensively.
Per @KenDavidoff the #Mets have shown interest in catchers Robinson Chirinos and Drew Butera.
— Joe DeMayo (@PSLToFlushing) November 20, 2019
He speculates this means Tomas Nido could potentially be on the move and cited PIT as a potential interested party with Starling Marte a fit for the Mets.https://t.co/DUTsodmK1w
Given his strong year in Houston, it's highly unlikely Chirinos would sign with the Mets in order to become the backup option behind Ramos. There are plenty of teams in need of an everyday catcher behind the plate, especially one who caught pitches for AL Cy Young winner Justin Verlander and runner-up Gerrit Cole.
Unless the New York Mets back up the Brinks truck in his driveway, it's unlikely Robinson Chirinos would opt for reduced playing time in 2020.