The New York Mets have selected the contract of veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The move comes as the club continues to reshape its inconsistent 2025 bullpen, which featured 46 different pitchers. Kimbrel will now earn $2.5 million under the terms of his minor league contract, which he signed in January.
Kimbrel had the option to opt out of the deal on three dates: five days before Opening Day, May 1, and June 1. The Mets did not include him on their Opening Day roster but Kimbrel chose to remain with the organization. He spent his time in the minors pitching a single inning for the St. Lucie affiliate before being called up. His promotion now requires a corresponding roster move, as the Mets have two open 40-man spots but only 26 active roster positions.
The Mets currently have a volatile bullpen situation. Huascar Brazoban and Tobias Myers are the only relievers with remaining minor league options. Myers was used in a long relief role on Tuesday after starter Clay Holmes exited due to a hamstring issue. With just 36 pitches thrown in that appearance, Myers remains a potential candidate to be sent down to make room for Kimbrel.
Richard Lovelady could also face the possibility of being designated for assignment. The Mets have struggled with reliever durability and depth, and the addition of Kimbrel signals a shift toward more veteran presence in the pen. Kimbrel brings a 3.25 ERA over 230 career playoff innings and has closed 212 games in his MLB career.
The Mets’ bullpen used 56 games from 14 different relievers in April alone. Kimbrel’s experience and track record could provide the stability the club has been missing. His selection also reflects the team’s ongoing effort to find a consistent closer after a chaotic 2025 season.
More roster moves are likely in the coming days as the Mets prepare for their next series. Kimbrel’s performance in his first MLB action of 2026 will be closely watched, with the potential to impact the rest of the season.
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