RIVERDALE, NY – Manhattan Jaspers’ Alumnus Joe Jacques ‘18 Signs Minor League Deal with New York Mets

In a move that highlights both perseverance and dedication, former Manhattan Jaspers pitcher Joe Jacques ‘18 has officially signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets, the organization announced on Tuesday.

Head Coach Steven Rosen expressed pride in Jacques’ achievement and the significance of his journey from Manhattan University to the professional baseball stage.
“We’re incredibly proud of Joe and what this moment represents for both him and Manhattan Baseball,” Rosen said.
“Joe’s journey is a reminder of what hard work, perseverance, and belief in yourself can lead to — especially coming from a program that continues to grow the way ours has. His signing with the Mets, an organization tied closely to the Cohen Foundation, makes this even more special for everyone connected to Manhattan University.”

Rosen noted that Jacques’ signing represents a full-circle moment, highlighting not only his talent but also the kind of character the Manhattan program strives to develop.
“It’s a full-circle moment that highlights the direction our program is heading and the type of people we strive to develop,” Rosen added.

Jacques, a standout pitcher for the Jaspers from 2014 to 2018, was initially drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2018 MLB Draft, taken 984th overall.
His selection marked the beginning of a professional journey that has seen him navigate multiple organizations while consistently showcasing his skills on the mound.

Over the course of his Minor League Baseball career, Jacques has pitched for five organizations, compiling 19 victories and a lifetime ERA of 4.19 across 243 games, including six starts.
The Shrewsbury, NJ native also recorded 10 saves in 316.0 innings pitched, striking out 304 batters along the way.
His versatility as both a reliever and occasional starter has made him a reliable asset in every bullpen he has joined.

In the 2025 season, Jacques split time between the Oklahoma City Comets (AAA affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers) and the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA affiliate of the Seattle Mariners).
He appeared in 47 games with one start, finishing with a 3-1 record over 52.1 innings pitched.
During that span, Jacques allowed 64 hits while striking out 61 batters, demonstrating both consistency and resilience despite changing organizations mid-season.

Jacques’ path to the Major Leagues has also been marked by memorable milestones.
He made his MLB debut with the Boston Red Sox on June 12, 2023, against the Colorado Rockies, where he faced one batter in relief of Nick Pivetta before a rain delay curtailed further action.

Since that debut, Jacques has pitched in 25 combined games with the Boston Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks, including one start for Boston and one successful save opportunity.
Over 29.2 innings in the Major Leagues, he has surrendered 38 hits and logged 22 strikeouts, showing glimpses of the potential that scouts saw in him coming out of Manhattan.

Looking back at his time at Manhattan University, Jacques left an indelible mark on the program.
He posted an overall ERA of 4.04 while tallying 12 wins in 38 games started, including three complete games.
Additionally, Jacques contributed three saves in 251.2 innings pitched across five seasons, striking out 206 batters while wearing the Green and White.
His career at Manhattan remains a benchmark for future pitchers in the program, both for his statistical achievements and the leadership he demonstrated on and off the field.

Jacques’ signing with the Mets not only marks a personal milestone but also reflects the growing reputation of the Manhattan Baseball program.
The connection to the Cohen Foundation, which has a long-standing partnership with the Mets, adds an extra layer of significance to this deal, emphasizing the importance of community ties and development beyond the field.

Looking ahead, the Manhattan Jaspers open their 2026 season at the Puerto Rico Challenge during Valentine’s Day weekend.
The Jaspers are scheduled to play three games, taking on Indiana State, Seton Hall, and the University of Houston, providing a chance for the next generation of Jaspers to showcase their talent on a prominent stage.
Jacques’ journey serves as inspiration for these young athletes, exemplifying how dedication, adaptability, and perseverance can lead to professional opportunities in baseball.

For the Mets, Jacques represents a seasoned arm with both Major and Minor League experience, capable of contributing at multiple levels depending on the organization’s needs.
His experience across five minor league systems, coupled with his brief but instructive MLB appearances, make him a unique addition to a Mets organization seeking depth and versatility in its pitching ranks.

As Jacques embarks on this new chapter, both Manhattan University and the broader baseball community will be watching closely.
His story underscores the importance of resilience in professional sports — a narrative of patience, determination, and seizing opportunities when they arise.

In summary, Jacques’ signing is more than just a contract.
It symbolizes the culmination of years of hard work, the enduring impact of a collegiate program, and the promise of what comes next in a professional baseball career that continues to evolve.
For Manhattan Baseball, it is a proud moment that reinforces the program’s mission: to develop not only skilled athletes but also resilient, dedicated individuals capable of reaching the highest levels of their sport.