Kevin Pillar becomes free agent after Mets, OF decline mutual option

Pillar signed with the Mets in February and hit 15 home runs, had 47 runs batted in and produced a .231/.277/.455 slash line across 347 plate appearances in 124 games. The 2011 32nd-round draft pick was hit in the face by a 95 mph pitch during New York's game against the Atlanta Braves on May 17 and was placed on the injured list with multiple facial fractures, but ultimately returned to action just two weeks later on May 31.

While typically not considered to be much of a power threat, Pillar did go for 21 home runs and 88 runs batted in during the 2019 campaign. Prior to the last two seasons — the 2020 pandemic-shortened season and his injury-altered spring in 2021 included — Pillar had racked up at least 14 steals in six straight years, including a career-high 25 thefts in 2015.

Despite being over 30, Pillar is still considered to be one of elite outfielders in the game, as evidence by his career .991% fielding percentage and his nickname of "Superman."