The New York Mets released former Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes just before the beginning of the 2026 season.
Barnes signed a minor league deal with the Mets this offseason, looking for a chance to remain with a winning team in MLB after the Dodgers released him last season, but failed to make enough of an impact to remain with the team.
He had a solid spring for New York, posting a .889 OPS with two RBIs through eight games with the team, but the Mets already have plenty of help at catcher. On top of Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens , another former Dodgers catcher in Ben Rortvedt is also on the team after the Mets claimed him off waivers.
Just last week, Barnes commented on the quality the Mets had and their ability to put together a solid season.
"This is a really good group," Barnes said . "They've got a chance to do something special.
"You never know how a team is gonna come together, but the talent is here. This roster is as talented as any team in the major leagues. It just has to come together organically."
Feb 18, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets catcher Austin Barnes (55) takes batting practice as catcher Ben Rortvedt (left) waits on the pitch during spring training workouts at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images
Barnes made his first appearance for the Dodgers in 2015, but didn't become a regular on the team until 2017. He stayed with the team until his release in 2025, playing 612 MLB games for LA. He won two World Series with the team, and will also receive a ring for the Dodgers' 2025 World Series win.
Throughout his career, Barnes has a .660 OPS with 35 homers and 162 RBIs. He had his struggles during 2025, playing just 13 games and managing a .519 OPS throughout. The Dodgers released Barnes in May 2025 due to his lack of performance as well as the emergence of No. 1 prospect Dalton Rushing .
After the Dodgers released him, Barnes signed with the San Francisco Giants on a minor league deal. He spent just over a month with their Triple-A squad in Sacramento before they released him.
Would you want to see Austin Barnes back with the Dodgers despite their current depth behind the dish?
