After chasing a trade for the Marlins' J.T. Realmuto and considering free agent Yasmani Grandal, two of the best catchers in baseball, the Mets decided Sunday afternoon on Wilson Ramos, agreeing to terms with the free-agent backstop, pending a physical, a source confirmed.
The deal was for two years and $19 million, according to multiple reports.
Although general manager Brodie Van Wagenen has talked up the incumbents, Kevin Plawecki and Travis d'Arnaud, the Mets have been active on the catcher market. And Ramos, when healthy, is an upgrade over the Mets' internal options.
Ramos split 2018 between the Rays and Phillies, hitting .306 with a .358 OBP and .487 slugging percentage. He had 15 homers and 70 RBIs and was an All-Star for the second time.
That's Ramos' upside. The downside is his lengthy injury history. He missed time last summer with a left hamstring strain and tore the ACL in his right knee at the end of the 2016 season. From 2012-14, Ramos suffered a variety of injuries, including several hamstring strains.
As much as the Mets like Realmuto, they weren't interested in meeting the Marlins' asking price, which was one of Michael Conforto/Brandon Nimmo/Amed Rosario, plus prospects. And Grandal, as strong of a track record as he has offensively and defensively, is expected to receive a larger contract than Ramos.
