In a move that sent ripples through Major League Baseball, the New York Mets have pulled off a surprising and high-stakes trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, acquiring elite outfielder José Siri in exchange for right-handed pitcher Eric Orze. The deal, announced on November 19, 2024, marks a bold step by the Mets’ front office as they look to reshape their roster ahead of the 2025 season.
Siri, 29, brings a dynamic presence to the Mets’ outfield with his elite defensive capabilities and top-tier athleticism. Though his 2024 offensive numbers were underwhelming — batting just .187 with 18 home runs and 47 RBIs — his value lies in his glove and speed. According to Statcast, Siri tied for second among Major League outfielders with 16 outs above average and led the Rays with 12 game-winning RBIs. His ability to change the game defensively, especially in center field, makes him a valuable asset for a Mets team that struggled with consistency in the outfield last season.
The Mets’ acquisition of Siri underscores a renewed focus on defense and speed, qualities that are often underappreciated in the analytics era but crucial for winning tight games. His elite range and arm strength instantly upgrade the Mets’ outfield, giving them a reliable defender who can also contribute on the basepaths. With Citi Field’s expansive outfield, having a player like Siri patrolling center could be a game-changer.
On the other side of the deal, the Rays receive Eric Orze, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher who made his MLB debut in 2024. While Orze’s time in the majors was brief — just 1⅔ innings with a 21.60 ERA — his minor league numbers tell a more promising story. He posted a solid 2.92 ERA in 43 relief appearances for Triple-A Syracuse, showcasing a strong fastball-slider combination and a gritty, competitive edge on the mound. The Rays, known for their success in developing pitchers, may see untapped potential in Orze and believe he can become a reliable bullpen piece in their system.
For the Mets, this trade is about addressing an immediate need. With questions surrounding the health and consistency of their current outfielders, Siri offers a dependable option in center field and brings postseason experience from his time in Tampa. It’s also a sign that the Mets, under new management and front office direction, are willing to take risks and shake things up in pursuit of a playoff berth.
The deal is somewhat surprising given Tampa Bay’s reputation for maximizing value and holding onto players with controllable contracts. However, the Rays may have felt that Siri’s offensive struggles and arbitration cost made him expendable, especially if they believe in Orze’s long-term upside.
As both teams look ahead to Spring Training, the trade will be closely analyzed. For now, Mets fans can be excited about the arrival of a player who plays with energy, hustle, and elite defensive skills. If Siri can improve even slightly at the plate, this could prove to be a steal for New York — and a critical step toward contending in a tough National League East.
