The signing was reported last week but was officially announced by the Mets this morning.
The Mets have officially signed outfielder John Mayberry Jr. to a one-year, $1.45 million contract. The contract also includes $500,000 in incentives based on awards and plate appearances, though the details of those incentives have not been revealed. The signing was reported late last week but was not announced by the team until this morning. To make room for the 31-year-old outfielder, the Mets designated reliever Gonzalez Germen for assignment.
Mayberry is not exactly a well-rounded player, but he can hit for power against lefties, batting .269/.324/.533 against them for his career. The Mets will use him primarily as pinch hitter against left-handed relievers, though he could see the occasional start in left field as well.
This type of signing isn't particularly exciting. It is, however, very low risk, and the Mets have had success with deals like this in the past. Both Scott Hairston and Marlon Byrd were brought in on similar deals to fill similar roles, and both were valuable contributors in their time in Queens. Expecting Mayberry to be another Marlon Byrd is a tad optimistic, but it's very possible for him to be a positive addition to the team.