The offseason began as a rough patch for New York Mets fans. With key players leaving via trades and free agency, many felt disheartened. The front office, led by David Stearns, faced significant criticism. Yet, the past weeks have signaled a change in momentum as new signings offer fresh hope.
One of the latest additions, veteran right-handed reliever Craig Kimbrel, has the potential to reinvigorate the bullpen. MLB insider Jon Heyman reported the deal on Saturday, noting Kimbrel’s minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. At 37 years old, Kimbrel aims to extend a 16-year career and could pitch for a 10th major league team this season.
“Craig Kimbrel agrees to Mets deal. Minors deal with MLB camp invite,” Heyman posted on X.
Craig Kimbrel agrees to Mets deal. Minors deal with MLB camp invite.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 25, 2026
With 440 saves in his career, Kimbrel ranks fifth all-time among major leaguers. He’s a two-time Reliever of the Year and won the National League Rookie of the Year Award in 2011. His impressive resume includes five top-10 finishes for the Cy Young Award. Throughout his career, his average of 14.0 strikeouts per nine innings showcases his effectiveness as a strikeout artist.
Craig Kimbrel Gamble Could Yield Significant Rewards for the Mets
Bringing in Kimbrel on a minor league contract may prove to be a smart investment for the New York Mets. According to Will Sammon of The Athletic, there may be an opportunity for Kimbrel to find a role on the team, addressing the organization’s immediate need for bullpen depth.
“The Mets’ bullpen figures to feature a job or two up for grabs. The core group includes closer Devin Williams, setup relievers Luke Weaver and Brooks Raley, and middle relievers Luis Garcia and Huascar Brazobán. Newcomer Tobias Myers, acquired from the Milwaukee Brewers in the deal with Freddy Peralta, might be the long reliever,” Sammon wrote.
Per @JonHeyman, the Mets and Craig Kimbrel have agreed to a minor-league deal with an invite to MLB camp.
Kimbrel, 37, spent last year with the Braves and Astros and had a 2.25 ERA in 14 appearances. pic.twitter.com/dWwsKPc0R0
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) January 25, 2026
Kimbrel’s journey has seen ups and downs. After a shaky experience with the Baltimore Orioles, he started 2025 on a minor league deal with the Atlanta Braves but made only one appearance. The Texas Rangers signed him next, but he did not appear in any major league games for them. The Houston Astros welcomed him in June, where he made 13 appearances, completed 11.0 innings, and achieved a 2.45 ERA along with 16 strikeouts.
