Former Mets Infielder Joins NL East Rival Braves After Free Agency Decision

The New York Mets have seen one of their former infielders land with a familiar National League East rival.

Vidal Bruján has signed a minor league contract with the Atlanta Braves, returning to an organization he played for during the 2025 season.

The 28-year-old switch-hitter agreed to the deal on October 30 and was assigned to Triple-A Gwinnett the following day, according to MLB's official transaction log.

The signing comes just over two weeks after Bruján elected free agency from New York on October 15.

Bruján was among two former Mets players who chose free agency earlier this offseason, joining outfielder MJ Melendez in seeking another opportunity.

With his new deal, however, Bruján now has a new organization and a chance to compete for a return to the major leagues.

His time with the Mets was brief.

New York acquired Bruján from the Minnesota Twins in January for cash considerations, hoping his defensive versatility could provide additional infield depth.

He appeared in just nine major league games during the 2026 season, going 1-for-11 with one RBI and one walk.

Bruján spent most of the year with Triple-A Syracuse, appearing in 65 games and batting .278 with a .385 on-base percentage and .421 slugging percentage.

The Mets designated him for assignment in June, and he remained in the organization after clearing waivers before eventually electing free agency in October.

Atlanta represents a familiar destination.

The Braves claimed Bruján off waivers from Baltimore in August 2025, and he appeared in 24 games for Atlanta, batting .268 with a .362 on-base percentage.

He has played 271 major league games since debuting with Tampa Bay in 2021, posting a career .197 batting average while spending time with six organizations.

Although his offensive production has been limited, Bruján offers experience at multiple infield positions, making him a potential depth option for Atlanta.

His departure also comes as the Mets continue adjusting their own roster for 2027.

New York recently claimed former Angels infielder Kyren Paris, adding another versatile player to the organization.

The club also faces additional decisions involving its 40-man roster as it prepares for the offseason.

For Bruján, the latest move provides another opportunity to earn a major league role, this time with a Braves organization that already knows what he can offer.