The Mets have signed infielder Christian Cairo to a major league deal, per a team announcement. Cairo closed the season in New York’s system after joining the organization via waiver claim.

Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reports that it’s a one-year split contract. The exact terms of the deal are not yet known.

Cairo signed a minor league deal with the Phillies last offseason that included an upward mobility clause. He was added to the 40-man roster shortly before the season. Cairo did not reach the majors with Philly. He was designated for assignment in mid-September. The Mets claimed him and stashed him at Triple-A.

The 25-year-old Cairo had spent his entire pro career in the Guardians organization before last season. He showed solid speed and a good eye at the plate in the minors, but topped out at Triple-A with Cleveland. Cairo posted a .676 OPS in 128 games at Lehigh Valley. He had an impressive 90 walks to 76 strikeouts over 516 plate appearances. He also stole 25 bases for the third straight season.

Cairo has two minor league option years remaining. He has extensive experience at second base, third base, and shortstop. He’s also spent time at all three outfield spots in the minors. Cairo could work his way into a utility role for the Mets at some point in 2027, depending on how their bench shakes out this offseason.

Photo courtesy of Nathan Ray Seebeck, Imagn Images