Former Mets Gold Glove Winner Juan Lagares Retires

The defensive standout spent 10 seasons in the major leagues, mostly with the New York Mets.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Juan Lagares, a former Gold Glove-winning outfielder for the New York Mets, has announced his retirement from professional baseball after a 20-year career. Lagares, a native of the Dominican Republic, signed with the Mets as an international free agent in 2006 and made his MLB debut in 2013, winning a Gold Glove the following year for his outstanding defensive play in center field.

Why it matters

Lagares was known for his elite outfield defense and strong throwing arm during his time with the Mets, becoming one of the best defensive center fielders in the game. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Mets, as they lose a homegrown talent who was a fan favorite for his highlight-reel plays in the field.

The details

Lagares spent the majority of his MLB career with the Mets, playing for the team from 2013 to 2019. He won a Gold Glove in 2014 after hitting .281 with 4 home runs, 47 RBIs, and 13 stolen bases. Lagares also had stints with the Padres and Angels later in his career, but never quite matched the success he had in New York. The Mets honored Lagares before their home opener last April, where he threw out the ceremonial first pitch.

  • Lagares signed with the Mets as an international free agent in 2006.
  • Lagares made his MLB debut with the Mets in April 2013.
  • Lagares won a Gold Glove with the Mets in 2014.
  • Lagares' last MLB appearance came in 2022 with the Angels.
  • Lagares announced his retirement on February 19, 2026.

The players

Juan Lagares

A former Gold Glove-winning outfielder who spent the majority of his 10-year MLB career with the New York Mets.

Curtis Granderson

A former Mets outfielder who praised Lagares' elite defensive abilities after he won the Gold Glove in 2014.

Tommie Agee

A Mets outfielder who also won a Gold Glove, in 1970.

Carlos Beltran

A Mets outfielder who won three Gold Glove awards from 2006 to 2008.

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What they’re saying

“Juan is by far the best outfielder I've seen, that I've played with and got a chance to watch. There are some amazing things he does because he's not necessarily the fastest guy out there, but his jumps are amazing. His reads are amazing and the fact that you can throw in center field is a top tool to have.”

— Curtis Granderson, Former Mets Outfielder (New York Post)

What’s next

The Mets are expected to honor Lagares again during their 2026 season, likely with a ceremonial first pitch or other tribute to celebrate his career and contributions to the franchise.

The takeaway

Lagares' retirement marks the end of an era for the Mets, as they lose a homegrown defensive standout who was a fan favorite for his highlight-reel plays in center field. His Gold Glove-caliber defense made him one of the best outfielders in Mets history, and his legacy will be remembered by the team and its fans.