Jared Young Ready to Return to Majors

It’s no secret the Mets value defensive versatility. It’s also no secret the organization loves a Cinderella story, finding a diamond in the rough and building on the player’s abilities. They’ve done it with players like Sean Manaea and Luis Severino on the pitching side and have found hidden gems like Luis Torrens and Tyrone Taylor on the position player side.
Jared Young hopes to join that crowd.

The Canadian-born 29-year-old signed a split-contract, one-year, major league deal with the Mets in December 2024. A utility player (he can play first and third base, along with the corner outfield spots), Young played with the Chicago Cubs from 2022-2023, hitting .210/.290/.435/.725 over 22 games. He split the 2024 campaign between the Cardinals’ Triple-A affiliate and the Doosan Bears of the KBO League. Young belted 10 home runs with Memphis, posting a .917 OPS, while smacking 11 home runs in Korea with a 1.080 OPS.

With the severity of Jesse Winker‘s oblique injury unknown after Game 1 of Sunday’s doubleheader in St. Louis (he’s likely heading to the IL, but for how long remains to be seen), Young might find a spot on the Mets’ roster should Winker miss time. Already on the 40-man roster, Young has a .302/.474/.581/1.055 line through 14 games (includes a four-game rehab stint in Single-A) with nine hits, one home run, nine RBIs and seven walks.

Metsmerized Editor-in-chief Mike Mayer had the pleasure of asking Young a handful of questions regarding his career. Below is a summarized recap of that interview.

Home and Away

It’s not uncommon for players to make league changes during the season, but Young made a big one in 2024. An opportunity to play in the KBO came up earlier than expected while with the Cardinals Triple-A affiliate, and it was an offer he couldn’t refuse. Young notes that playing overseas was something he had always wanted to experience in his career, and he felt like it would be a chance to go somewhere and prove how good of a player he could be on any stage. On playing in the KBO, Young commented:

“When I got there I really had to lean into just trusting myself and the game in play. You’re kind of on your own over there so being confident was huge. I decided to come back to the States and sign with the Mets however because I feel like my big league career is just getting started.”

Young signed with the Mets as depth, especially when Pete Alonso‘s free agent market was uncertain.

Player Profile

As noted above, the Mets covet players who can do a little of everything. Young fits that profile to a tee, as he’s played all over the infield and outfield and even pitched a bit. However, he notes that he’s most comfortable in the outfield, especially since that’s where he’s been playing the most over the past couple of years. Young isn’t one to get comfortable in one spot.

“It’s all about taking the time to get the reps in everywhere in practice and then being confident in games.”

The right-hand throwing and left-handed batting Young brings three gloves to every game: one for first base, one for third, and one for the outfield. He’s always ready to go wherever a manager needs him to play.

‘Tis the Season

In spring training with the Mets, Young played a lot of first base and practiced most of his time there, but as his time in the organization has progressed, he’s seen more and more time in the outfield. He hasn’t logged an inning yet at first with Syracuse this year but has seen time at second, third and the outfield.

Young is just another player on a long list to rave about the Mets’ organization as a whole. Coming into camp and a new organization, he wasn’t sure what the vibe and feel would be but confirmed that the Mets know what they’re doing.

“I think it’s great from the top down. Having old teammates is always the best, and [Brandon] Waddell and the Cubs guys have been great.”

Looking Ahead

With the 2025 season still in its infancy, Young reflects on his expectations and goals for the year. Like any ballplayer, the goal and expectation is to get up to the big league club and help them out as much as possible.

“In order to do that you have to be healthy and strong and playing at your best. Everyone always says that cliche answer but it’s the truth. When my names called I’ll be ready.”

We thank Jared again for taking the time to speak with us and wish him luck in the 2025 season!

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