Mets Sign Austin Barnes to Minor League Deal

The New York Mets added veteran catching depth on Thursday by signing former Los Angeles Dodgers backstop Austin Barnes to a minor league contract, complete with an invitation to major league spring training.

Barnes, a 36-year-old who spent his entire 11-year major league career with the Dodgers after debuting in 2015, brings a resume highlighted by two World Series titles in 2020 and 2024. He appeared in postseason play during eight of those seasons, often serving as a reliable defensive option behind the plate. Known for his game-calling and handling of pitchers, Barnes frequently worked with ace Clayton Kershaw during his time in Los Angeles. His career batting line stands at .223/.322/.338, with 35 home runs and 162 RBIs over 612 games, underscoring his role as a defense-first contributor rather than an offensive force.

Last season, Barnes saw limited action, appearing in just 13 games for the Dodgers before being designated for assignment in May to clear space for prospect Dalton Rushing. He then signed a minor league deal with the San Francisco Giants but played only 10 games at Triple-A before his release on August 1. The Dodgers' commitment to All-Star Will Smith as...