Beginning in 2020, MLB rosters will expand to allow 26 men. We can probably assume this spot will go to a relief pitcher given the average team’s overuse of bullpen arms in modern times. Sticking strictly with position players, the New York Mets may have a competition brewing for the final spot on the bench.
The last position player on the bench—in the past sometimes called the 25th man—is usually a versatile defender with maybe some speed or pop. He’s someone who may be new to the big leagues or perhaps he’s traveled around plenty. In 2018, this was the position Jose Reyes held.