MLB Rumors: Jose Iglesias Linked to Reunion With NL Team

February 26, 2026 ,
San Diego Padres infielder Jose Iglesias throws the ball during 2025 game.

The New York Mets handled the big moves this offseason, but league chatter suggests their next decision could come on a much smaller scale. 

With uncertainty surrounding Francisco Lindor’s readiness for Opening Day after hamate surgery, Fansided’s Zachary Rotman believes a reunion with veteran infielder Jose Iglesias is at least worth considering.

Why Jose Iglesias Makes Sense for the Mets

Iglesias, 36, delivered one of the best stretches of his career the last time he wore a Mets uniform. 

In 2024, he slashed .337/.381/.448 with an .830 OPS, four home runs, 26 RBIs and 3.1 bWAR across 85 games, helping power the club to the National League Championship Series. 

Beyond the numbers, his steady defense at shortstop, second base, third base, and his clubhouse presence made him a quiet difference-maker during that postseason run.

That versatility is exactly what the Mets could use right now. Internal options such as Ronny Mauricio, Vidal Brujan, Grae Kessinger and Jackson Cluff offer potential but little certainty, Rotman notes.

With Lindor coming off a procedure and Mauricio likely needing everyday reps in Triple-A, Iglesias would give manager Carlos Mendoza a reliable glove and a veteran presence without disrupting the roster’s long-term plans.

The Risk Behind an Iglesias Reunion

Of course, there’s a reason Iglesias is still on the market. 

His 2025 season with the San Diego Padres was a sharp step back, as he hit .229/.298/.294 with three home runs, 36 RBIs, a .592 OPS and a -0.7 bWAR in 112 games. 

His 66 OPS+ ranked well below league average, raising concerns that age and declining bat speed could limit his impact going forward.

That’s why any reunion would come with minimal risk and minimal commitment. Rotman projects Iglesias to land a one-year deal in the $1.2–$1.4 million range, the type of contract the Mets could move on from quickly if younger options emerge.

Photo Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

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