New Headline: Swinging Safely, But Not With The Bat: Gold Glove Star's Defense Reigns, Offense Slows
The New York Mets’ four-time National League saves leader is contending for a final spot on the roster after a standout career.
ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - AUGUST 2: A detail view of a New York Mets logo on a hat prior to a game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on August 2, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Brandon Sloter/Getty Images) Getty Images The New York Mets saw a lot of key roster spots open up at the beginning of the offseason, but many of them were filled pretty quickly. Following a disappointing season, the team parted ways with long-time stars like Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil.
But before long the team brought in Jorge Polanco, Bo Bichette, Luis Robert Jr. and others to seize the vacant big-league roster spots. As a result, most of the Mets’ roster was solidified well before Opening Day.
But the bullpen remains in flux with some final spots still to be determined. “Veteran Craig Kimbrel, who is on a minor-league deal, and lefty Bryan Hudson (out of minor-league options) are among the relievers battling for the final spot,” Tim Britton and Will Sammon wrote for The Athletic . “Other options include right-hander Austin Warren and lefty Richard Lovelady.
” MORE FROM FORBES Phillies $135 Million Star Offers 2-Word Response On ‘Traitor’ Accusations By Peter Chawaga New York Mets’ Craig Kimbrel Fights For Roster Spot After Storied Career With the battle ongoing, it’s hard to say which reliever might have the best chance of seizing a big-league roster spot. But Kimbrel certainly has a stronger resume than any of the other options. In a storied 16-year career, Kimbrel has led the National League in total saves four different times, earned a Rookie of the Year Award, received Cy Young Award votes across five different seasons and made an All-Star team nine times.