Port St. Lucie — Austin Barnes’ Journey Continues with the Mets
Austin Barnes has spent 11 years in Major League Baseball, earning two World Series titles during his time with the Dodgers. So, why is he now training with the Mets, especially with Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens already on the roster?
“I just want to play baseball,” Barnes shared. “I’m here to see what happens. I believe I still have what it takes, so I want to keep pushing forward.”
After being released by the Dodgers last May, the 36-year-old briefly joined the Giants, where he played about a month in Triple-A Sacramento before facing another release.
Now with the Mets, who signed him to a minor league contract in January, Barnes is contemplating his future. It’s hard to say how long he wants to keep playing or whether he’s okay with remaining in the minors. Regardless, with Opening Day around the corner, he insists he’s not finished just yet and is eager for a chance in Queens.
“This team has a really strong group,” Barnes noted recently, indicating he sees potential for something special.
Bringing a unique viewpoint as a key player in the Dodgers’ 2020 championship and serving as backup in 2024 when they triumphed over the Yankees in five games, Barnes reflects on team dynamics. “You never know how a team gels until it happens, but the talent is certainly undeniable. This roster could match up with any in Major League Baseball. It’s really about finding that chemistry,” he expressed.
And Barnes wants to be part of that chemistry.
“I’m thankful for this opportunity,” he remarked. “I’m trying to capitalize on it. I came here because I want to win. I’m not one to shy away from competition, and this team definitely has that drive to succeed.”
It remains uncertain whether Barnes will secure a spot on the roster or how much longer he intends to keep playing. He admitted, “I have kids now, and I always imagined I’d play until they decide to tear up their jerseys. But that choice feels different now than it did when I was younger.”
His outlook, though, stays the same.
“It feels like it’s still possible, so why not give it a shot?” Barnes said. “My passion for baseball hasn’t waned. It hasn’t been a smooth path, but I owe it to myself to stay on the field. Plus, my son is five and starting to grasp more of what’s happening. I want him to witness my journey, so yeah, I guess I’ll keep playing until they have to take my jersey away.”
Even if he doesn’t return to the majors with the Mets, Barnes has already made an impression this spring by mentoring the team’s other catchers.
“He has a great understanding of pitchers and is smart about managing the team,” remarked teammate Hayden Senger. “He’s been in the game a long time, knows how to approach hitting, and while having a solid Plan A is crucial, you must always be prepared with backup plans for dealing with major league hitters. It’s fantastic to have him around.”
