Grae Kessinger Signs Minor-League Deal with Mets

28-year-old infielder invited to Mets' spring training camp

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:24am

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Grae Kessinger, a 28-year-old infielder, has signed a minor-league deal with the New York Mets and will attend the team's spring training camp. While Kessinger is expected to open the season with the Mets' Triple-A affiliate in Syracuse, his strong performance in camp could potentially earn him a spot on the major league roster as a bench player.

Why it matters

Minor-league deals like this often serve as an opportunity for players on the cusp of breaking through to the majors. Kessinger's experience and versatility could make him a dark horse candidate for a bench role with the Mets if he impresses during spring training.

The details

Kessinger spent 11 games with the Arizona Diamondbacks' Triple-A affiliate in 2025, batting .235 with three RBIs, six runs scored, and a stolen base. While those numbers may not be eye-popping, they suggest Kessinger has potential that the Mets are hoping to unlock with this minor-league deal.

  • Kessinger signed the minor-league deal with the Mets earlier this week.
  • Kessinger is expected to open the 2026 season with the Mets' Triple-A affiliate in Syracuse.

The players

Grae Kessinger

A 28-year-old infielder who has signed a minor-league deal with the New York Mets and will attend their spring training camp.

New York Mets

A Major League Baseball team based in New York City.

Arizona Diamondbacks

A Major League Baseball team based in Phoenix, Arizona.

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What’s next

If Kessinger performs well during spring training, he could earn a spot on the Mets' major league roster as a bench player.

The takeaway

This minor-league deal with the Mets represents a significant opportunity for Grae Kessinger to showcase his skills and potentially break through to the major leagues. While he is expected to start the season in the minors, a strong spring training performance could make him a dark horse candidate for a bench role with the Mets.