MLB Free Agency: New York Mets sign Todd Frazier

The New York Mets have reportedly signed free agent third baseman Todd Frazier.

Todd Frazier is staying in New York, but the veteran third baseman is changing leagues. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic was the first to report veteran third baseman Todd Frazier has signed a two-year deal worth $17 million with the New York Mets, pending a physical.

It was widely known the Mets needed to address infield spots this offseason and they’ve reportedly had Frazier on their radar for a while now. Prior to the 2017 season, Frazier had signed a one-year deal with the White Sox. He was then traded to the New York Yankees during the July trade deadline.

Frazier’s offensive production has dropped off a bit in recent years, but there’s still plenty of power in his bat. And he’s a solid defender in the hot corner over at third. On the season, he slashed .213/.344/.428 with 27 home runs and 76 RBI with both the White Sox and Yankees.

The veteran slugger, who will turn 32 next Monday, started his career with the Cincinnati Reds in 2011. He played there for five seasons, making two all-star appearances along the way. He was also the 2015 Home Run Derby champion.

Though Frazier only hit .222 over the course of 66 games with the Yankees last year, he got on base at a .365 clip. The Mets aren’t expected to be contenders next season. FanGraphs projects them to finish with just 72 wins. But if their rotation can stay healthy, they could be a surprise.

Next: Astros sign George Springer to $24 million extension

Moving from the Bronx to Queens, Frazier will likely provide another veteran leadership role with the Mets, just as he did with the Yankees. Frazier is a career .245 hitter with 175 home runs in seven MLB seasons.