Mets Sign Craig Kimbrel to Major League Contract

Per Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Mets will select Craig Kimbrel’s contract. That move returns the veteran reliever to the big leagues and was reported under the Mets Sign Craig Kimbrel wording.

Contract details

Kimbrel signed a minor league deal in January. The agreement guarantees $2.5 million if he is added to the active roster.

He is represented by SportsMeter. Kimbrel had enough service time to qualify as an Article XX(B) free agent.

Opt-outs and timing

The minors deal included three opt-out dates. Those dates were five days before Opening Day, May 1, and June 1.

Kimbrel declined his first opt-out and stayed in the minors through the early season.

Minor league appearance

His lone appearance came with the Mets’ A-level affiliate in St. Lucie. He logged one inning of work there.

Roster logistics

The Mets have two open spots on their 40-man roster. A corresponding transaction will be needed to clear room on the 26-man active roster.

Promoting Kimbrel converts the minors pact into a Major League Contract and triggers the $2.5 million payout.

Bullpen implications

Huascar Brazoban and Tobias Myers are the only current relievers with minor league options remaining. Myers threw 36 pitches last night in long relief after starter Clay Holmes exited with hamstring tightness.

If the club does not option Myers, Richard Lovelady could be a candidate to be designated for assignment to create roster space.

Wider context

The Mets used 46 different pitchers in 2025. That high total reflects injuries and the team’s habit of cycling fresh arms from Triple-A while moving others to the minors or DFA status.

Filmogaz.com will follow developments and provide updates as the Mets finalize the roster transaction.