Mets free agent, 2024 catalyst finally finds a new team

The Mets’ OMG era is officially over in New York.

On Wednesday, Robert Murry of FanSided first reported that infielder Jose Iglesias has agreed to sign with the San Diego Padres. Jon Heyman of The New York Post added that his contract is worth $3 million for one year with $1 million incentives.

BUY METS TICKETS: STUBHUB, VIVID SEATS, TICKETMASTER

Iglesias was seeking a multi-year deal after his successful turn with the Mets. In 85 games last season, he slashed .337/.381/.448 and posted a career-high 3.1 bWAR, second-highest on the team, behind shortstop Francisco Lindor (6.9).

He was seen as the catalyst that turned the Mets' season around in 2024. New York was 24-33 before calling up Iglesias from Triple-A Syracuse on May 31. They went 65-40 after, the best record in MLB.

His hit song “OMG,” performed under the moniker Candelita, quickly became an anthem — Iglesias even performed the song at Citi Field after a Mets in June. His musical success and impressive turn even earned him an invitation to perform ahead of the Home Run Derby at Globe Life Field, the site of the All-Star game, where teammate Pete Alonso participated.

In an appearance on the “Boomer and Gio” show on WFAN in November, Iglesias said he “hopes” he can wear orange and blue again.

“I know they’re a team that wants to win, and I can help them,” Iglesias added, via Audacy. “I can help on and off the field. … Let’s see how that plays out in free agency.”

Instead, he heads back to the San Diego Padres, the last team to cut him in June of 2023.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Manny Gómez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com.