The New York Mets are taking a flier on a proven veteran pitcher in Craig Kimbrel.
Several reporters confirmed Saturday that the Mets have agreed to sign Kimbrel. The All-Star closer is expected to join the Mets on a minor league deal.
Craig Kimbrel agrees to a Mets Minor League deal pic.twitter.com/At9AL9fkpm
— Talkin' Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) January 25, 2026
Kimbrel wrapped up his 16th MLB season last year in his first stint with the Houston Astros. The 37-year-old was effective in limited action for the Astros, posting a 2.45 ERA across 13 appearances.
If Kimbrel does suit up for the Mets next season, they would officially be the 9-time All-Star’s 10th team in the majors.
The Mets were middle-of-the-pack in pitching last season despite having the largest payroll in MLB. New York’s team-wide ERA of 4.03 was 18th in the majors, while the team’s bullpen ERA of 3.93 fittingly ranked 15th.
Earlier this week, the Mets acquired an All-Star starting pitcher in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. The team also got some positive buzz surrounding rotation piece Kodai Senga.
Earlier this week, the Mets acquired an All-Star starting pitcher in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. The team also got some positive buzz surrounding rotation piece Kodai Senga.
After a disappointing 2025 campaign, the Mets have revamped their roster in a big way. On top of the moves to improve the team’s pitching staff, New York also signed Bo Bichette to a nine-figure deal.
Earlier this week, the Mets acquired an All-Star starting pitcher in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers. The team also got some positive buzz surrounding rotation piece Kodai Senga.
