The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets are both on a mission to bounce back from last season's disappointments, and in a twist of fate, a promising minor leaguer has switched allegiances between the two teams.
Infielder Eddinson Paulino, who spent the past year and a half with the Blue Jays after being acquired from the Boston Red Sox in exchange for catcher Danny Jansen, is making headlines. Paulino showed promise in the lower minors, but his performance in Double-A last season didn't quite hit the mark for Toronto.
The Blue Jays opted not to add Paulino to their 40-man roster this winter, leading him to explore free agency in search of a team that could offer a clearer path to the majors. Enter the Mets, who signed him to a minor-league deal on Monday, as confirmed by the transactions log.
Initially assigned to High-A St. Lucie, Paulino might see time in Double-A or even Triple-A as the season unfolds.
Paulino's potential is intriguing. He's demonstrated power with double-digit home runs in three of the last four seasons and has been a menace on the basepaths, swiping over 25 bags in both 2022 and 2023. However, inconsistency at the plate, highlighted by a .198 average at Double-A New Hampshire, kept him from being a priority for the Blue Jays.
While a major league debut might not be imminent, the Mets see value in Paulino's versatility and athleticism. If they can refine his on-base skills, Paulino could become a valuable asset, potentially leaving the Blue Jays to ponder what might have been. As he approaches his 24th birthday this summer, this year could be pivotal in shaping his future in the big leagues.