A Legendary Arm is Heading to Queens! Nine-time Major League Baseball All-Star Craig Kimbrel is set to embark on his 17th MLB season after reportedly agreeing to terms with the New York Mets. This move marks a significant addition to the Mets' bullpen, bringing a wealth of experience and a decorated career to the club.
While the official announcement from the National League team is still pending, credible reports from prominent sports outlets like the New York Post, New York Times, and MLB.com have widely circulated the news of Kimbrel's potential return to the diamond. He is expected to sign a minor-league contract, which includes a coveted invitation to the Mets' spring training camp in Port St. Lucie, Florida. This provides him with a clear pathway to earn a spot on the Major League roster.
Last season, Kimbrel saw limited action, appearing in a career-low 14 games. He pitched briefly for the Atlanta Braves and then for the Houston Astros, where he posted a respectable 2.25 earned-run average over 11 innings. He allowed 10 hits and seven walks while striking out 17 batters. Interestingly, he also logged 42 minor-league games in 2025, suggesting a continued commitment to honing his craft.
For those unfamiliar with Kimbrel's impressive resume, he is a proud alumnus of Lee-Huntsville and Wallace State-Hanceville. His big-league journey began with the Atlanta Braves, where he spent his first five seasons and established a franchise record for career saves with 186. His early success was undeniable, earning him accolades such as the National League Rookie of the Year and The Sporting News National League Pitcher of the Year twice. He was an NL All-Star four times during his tenure with the Braves. After leaving Atlanta, Kimbrel continued to dominate, amassing five more All-Star selections and an additional 254 saves.
Kimbrel's career has seen him don the uniforms of several other notable teams, including the San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox, and Chicago Cubs. He was traded to the Chicago White Sox in July 2021 and has since played for the White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Baltimore Orioles. His 2025 season even saw him return to Atlanta for one game and add the Astros to his list of former teams.
Looking at the overall numbers, Kimbrel has appeared in 851 MLB relief appearances, boasting a 56-48 record with an outstanding 2.58 ERA. He has accumulated an incredible 440 saves over 821.2 innings pitched, striking out 1,282 batters while allowing 492 hits and 346 walks.
But here's where it gets interesting... Kimbrel's place in baseball history is already cemented. He currently ranks fifth on MLB's all-time saves list. Furthermore, he is one of only three pitchers to have achieved 1,200 MLB strikeouts without ever starting a game. This remarkable feat highlights his specialization and effectiveness as a reliever.
And this is the part most people miss... While Kimbrel's past achievements are undeniable, his recent limited playing time raises questions about his current form and ability to contribute at the highest level. Is this a strategic move by the Mets to acquire a veteran presence at a low cost, or a sign of a pitcher on the decline? Could this be a redemption arc for a future Hall of Famer, or a final chapter in a storied career? What are your thoughts on this signing? Do you believe Kimbrel can still be an effective closer for the Mets, or is this more of a sentimental signing? Let us know your opinions in the comments below!
