Veteran shortstop José Iglesias has signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, adding infield depth to their roster. The deal includes a $3 million base salary if Iglesias is promoted to the major league team, with potential bonuses that could push his earnings to $4 million.
A Reliable Contact Hitter and Defensive Asset
Iglesias, 35, has been a consistent presence in Major League Baseball since 2011, known for his elite defense and contact hitting. He played a crucial role in the New York Mets’ 2024 playoff run, delivering a standout performance:
- Batting Average: .337
- On-Base Plus Slugging (OPS): .830
- Games Played: 85
His offensive contributions helped the Mets reach the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Despite his performance, the Mets opted not to re-sign him, shifting focus to younger infield talent.
Jose Iglesias in his time with the Mets:
.337 AVG
.829 OPS
4 HR
26 RBI
THANK YOU JOSE 💙🧡 pic.twitter.com/FqTRWck8im
Iglesias’ Cultural Impact in New York
Beyond his on-field play, Iglesias became a fan favorite with the Mets after releasing the song "OMG", which became an unofficial anthem for the team. The song gained traction among fans and players, often playing after key moments in games. Despite this, Iglesias admitted feeling hurt by the Mets’ decision not to bring him back. (Source)
New Opportunity with the Padres
Signing with San Diego gives Iglesias another shot at major league action. The Padres see him as a veteran presence who can provide infield depth, especially at shortstop and second base. If he impresses in Spring Training or Triple-A, he could quickly earn a roster spot.
Padres manager Mike Shildt talks about what he saw from Jose Iglesias with the Mets last season.
The Padres reportedly have signed the infielder to a minor league deal. pic.twitter.com/mmf13afepn
Looking Ahead
While the Padres’ infield is stacked with talent, Iglesias' experience and versatility make him a valuable insurance option. Whether he plays a bench role or becomes a regular starter, the move marks another chapter in his long MLB career.