New York Mets outfielder MJ Melendez elects free agency

MJ Melendez has elected free agency from the New York Mets. The 27-year-old outfielder, a five-year MLB veteran, appeared in 56 games during the 2026 season, recording a .192 batting average with four home runs.

Despite roster turnover, the Mets' lineup for the 2027 season is expected to remain largely stable due to limited roster flexibility under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement. The team currently has 13 offensive players under club control, including catchers Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens, and infielders such as Francisco Lindor, Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, and Marcus Semien. The emergence of players like Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing has provided a foundation that may limit the need for major offensive upgrades during the offseason.