The veteran shortstop can't hit a lick but rates decently by defensive metrics.
According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, the Mets have discussed and plan to meet with shortstop Cesar Izturis during the Winter Meetings. The veteran will turn 34 years old in February and has spent time with the Blue Jays, Dodgers, Cubs, Pirates, Cardinals, Orioles, Brewers, Nationals, and Reds over the past thirteen seasons.
Unfortunately, he's never really been able to hit. With a career slash line of .254/.293/.322 and a .272 wOBA and 62 wRC+, Izturis has been well below average, even by the lowly standards of his position. As a switch hitter, Izturis has been slightly less terrible against left-handed pitchers, though the split isn't really large enough to make it relevant. Ruben Tejada has also fared better against left-handed pitchers at the plate and much better than Izturis overall.
Izturis's skill, according to defensive metrics, is his ability to play shortstop. For his career, he's at 63 defensive runs saved (DRS) and 7.0 UZR/150 at the position, and he's played a little bit of second and third base, too. It's hard to see him as a much of an upgrade for the Mets, but if they're looking for a strictly-defensive backup in the middle infield, perhaps he fits the bill.
