New York Mets Bolster Roster with Jackson Cluff Signing
In a strategic move to strengthen their squad, the New York Mets have officially announced the signing of versatile infielder Jackson Cluff to a minor-league contract. The deal, confirmed on Friday, also includes a coveted invitation for the 28-year-old to the big-league spring training camp, offering him a pathway to secure a spot on the main roster.
Who is Jackson Cluff? A Look at the New Mets Infielder
Born in Littleton, Colorado, Jackson Cluff began his professional journey after being selected by the Washington Nationals in the sixth round of the 2019 MLB Draft from Brigham Young University (BYU). Over six seasons within the Nationals' farm system, Cluff built a solid resume, appearing in 498 minor-league games.
His career statistics showcase a well-rounded player: a .688 OPS, 42 home runs, 167 runs batted in, and an impressive 86 stolen bases, highlighting his speed on the basepaths. Defensively, his versatility is a major asset. While he has experience at every infield position and even the outfield, he is most at home in the middle infield.
Out of his 498 games, a substantial 434 were played at either shortstop or second base. His defensive prowess is particularly notable at second base, where he maintained an excellent .993 fielding percentage across 100 games, committing a mere three errors.
Addressing the Mets' Infield Puzzle
This acquisition is a direct response to the uncertainty that plagued the Mets' infield last season, which was among the most unsettled in the National League. While superstar Francisco Lindor is firmly entrenched at shortstop, the positions around him have been a revolving door.
During the 2025 season, the team cycled through players like Brett Baty, Jeff McNeil, Mark Vientos, Luisangel Acuna, and Ronny Mauricio without a clear, everyday solution emerging. The situation is further complicated by persistent trade rumours surrounding Jeff McNeil and the free agency of slugger Pete Alonso.
President of Baseball Operations David Stearns is proactively stockpiling options, and Jackson Cluff fits the bill perfectly. As a switch-hitter with significant speed, remarkable defensive skills, and six years of experience facing NL East rivals in the minors, he provides valuable and flexible depth.
What Cluff's Signing Means for the Mets' 2026 Season
The initial plan for Jackson Cluff is to begin the 2026 season with the Triple-A Syracuse team. However, a strong performance during February and March spring training in Port St. Lucie could rapidly alter that trajectory.
Injuries and mid-season trades often create unexpected openings on a major league roster. Cluff's defensive reliability and positional flexibility make him an ideal first-call candidate from the minors when such needs arise. These under-the-radar depth moves frequently prove crucial over the gruelling MLB season.
By adding a player who can capably cover second base, third base, shortstop, and the outfield corners, the New York Mets have installed a valuable safety net behind their young core, providing Manager and the front office with much-needed insurance and flexibility.
