Braves sign yet another abandoned Mets position player

The Atlanta Braves have a soft spot for former New York Mets infielders.

After signing Luis Guillorme to a one-year contract for their primary infield utility position (and then trading him to the Los Angeles Angels), the Braves made a cash trade to acquire Zack Short from DFA, who started the season with the Mets before making a cameo appearance with the Boston Red Sox.

Maybe the third time will be the charm?

The Braves announced today that they have signed the former Mets infielder. Joey Wendle, who was waived last week from a major league contract. The corresponding decision was to opt for Luke Williams in Triple-A Gwinnett.

Wendle, 34, was 8-36 this season for the Mets after signing a free agent contract in early November after leaving the Miami Marlins in free agency. A versatile defender with experience in all three slots besides first base, Wendle has started seven games at second base, two at third base and one at shortstop for New York this season.

Wendle’s contract with New York was for one year with a $2 million guarantee, and New York must pay all but the prorated minimum, which Atlanta will pay as long as Wendle remains on the major league roster. Although he hasn’t been an offensive threat in recent seasons, he remains a good infield defender to the left of first base.

Atlanta’s signing only helps with depth, considering Luke Williams remains in the organization and can go play every day in Gwinnett. He also provides assistance in the event of league disciplinary action against veteran infielder David Fletcher, currently playing in Gwinnett while under investigation by the league. for his involvement with the same illegal bookmaker that the interpreter of Shohei Ohtani, now fired, not only frequented but allegedly stole money from Shohei to pay him.