Mets Sign Craig Kimbrel to Minor League Contract
The New York Mets are set to sign veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel to a minor league contract. This deal includes an invitation to MLB Spring Training, as reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
If Kimbrel secures a spot on the major league roster, he will receive a base salary of $2.5 million, according to Will Sammon from The Athletic. Kimbrel, who is represented by SportsMeter, has had a rollercoaster career in recent years.
Craig Kimbrel’s Recent Career
In the past season, Kimbrel returned to the Atlanta Braves on a minor league deal but made only one appearance. He later joined the Texas Rangers before finishing the season with the Houston Astros. During his short stint with the Astros, Kimbrel showcased his talent, posting a 2.25 ERA and a 34.8% strikeout rate over 11 innings.
Statistics and Achievements
- 16-year MLB career.
- 5th on the all-time saves leaderboard with 440 career saves.
- 9-time All-Star selection, most recently in 2023.
- 2.29 SIERA and a 38.8% strikeout rate.
- 2025 season marked his first without an MLB save.
In 2024, Kimbrel struggled with a 5.33 ERA over 57 appearances with the Baltimore Orioles. He lost the closer’s role mid-season and was released before the campaign concluded. His performance deteriorated significantly during that season, a sharp contrast to his previous years where he maintained a streak of four consecutive seasons with 20 or more saves, even at the age of 37.
Challenges Ahead
As he joins the Mets, Kimbrel faces a competitive bullpen situation. The team has already signed A.J. Minter as a setup option and brought in Devin Williams as the closer. Luke Weaver is expected to contribute as the primary setup man. This depth chart presents a significant hurdle for Kimbrel, who now aims to reclaim his former glory.
Despite his recent challenges, Kimbrel has shown resilience in bouncing back from tough stretches. He has often relied on his fastball and curveball to maintain effectiveness, marking him as one of the most recognized relievers in the league.
The upcoming Spring Training will be critical for Kimbrel as he endeavors to solidify his position with the Mets and potentially add to his storied career.
