Former Giants, Mets Infielder Flores Awaits MLB Return

34-year-old veteran says he's 'not done playing' despite limited offers

Mar. 5, 2026 at 9:03pm by Ben Kaplan

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Wilmer Flores, a 34-year-old infielder who spent the past six seasons with the San Francisco Giants after breaking into the league with the New York Mets in 2013, is still a free agent as MLB's 2026 season approaches. Flores says he has received minor league offers but is holding out for a major league contract, stating 'I'm not done playing, I'm just waiting'.

Why it matters

Flores is a veteran presence who has contributed to playoff teams, but his declining offensive numbers in recent seasons have made him a less attractive free agent option. His willingness to wait for the right major league opportunity speaks to the competitive drive of veteran players trying to extend their careers.

The details

Flores posted a .686 OPS, 16 home runs, and .379 slugging percentage in 463 plate appearances for the Giants in 2025. He made 32 appearances in the field last season, mostly at first base and occasionally at third. Despite his diminished production, Flores believes he can still help a major league team, saying 'I'm healthy, I feel good, and I'm staying ready. I wouldn't be doing this if I thought I would embarrass myself.'

  • With just 20 days remaining until the New York Yankees visit the San Fransico Giants for Major League Baseball's first game of the 2026 season, there are still a handful of free agents available.

The players

Wilmer Flores

A 34-year-old infielder who spent the past six seasons with the San Francisco Giants after breaking into the league with the New York Mets in 2013.

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What they’re saying

“I'm not done playing, I'm just waiting.”

— Wilmer Flores

“I'm healthy, I feel good, and I'm staying ready. I wouldn't be doing this if I thought I would embarrass myself.”

— Wilmer Flores

The takeaway

Flores' willingness to wait for the right major league opportunity despite his diminished offensive production in recent seasons speaks to the competitive drive of veteran players trying to extend their careers. His experience and leadership could still be valuable to a team in need of a veteran presence, even if his days as an everyday player are behind him.