Spring Training Performance Fluctuations: Historically Elite Reliever Craig Kimbrel Excluded from New York Mets Opening Day Roster

The New York Mets informed relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel today that he will not be included in the team's Opening Day roster. However, whether this future Hall of Fame candidate will remain within the organization remains unclear.

The 37-year-old Kimbrel showed variable performance during spring training this year, conceding three runs over six innings with five walks, two hit-by-pitches, and five strikeouts. His fastball, which once reached triple-digit velocities during his peak, averaged only around 93 mph in Grapefruit League games.

If Kimbrel decides to stay within the organization, he could report to Triple-A Syracuse and aim to join the Mets later in the season. According to sources, if he chooses to leave, the team would consider releasing him from the minor league contract signed this winter, despite no contractual obligation to do so. This move would be a gesture of respect toward Kimbrel, allowing him to pursue other Major League opportunities.

“He is a very professional player…on a path toward a Hall of Fame career,” manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters. “Delivering such news to a player like this is never easy. But his consideration to remain with the team speaks to the culture we are building, the character of the players in this locker room, and his own character. We now have to wait and see.”

Kimbrel is a nine-time All-Star with 440 career saves, ranking fifth all-time and second among active players only to Kenley Jansen.

After Kimbrel's exit, left-handed pitchers Bryan Hudson and Richard Lovelady remain as contenders for the final spot in the Mets bullpen. However, Hudson struggled during spring training, allowing six earned runs over 3.1 innings, while Lovelady recently joined the team via the waiver process. Mets management has clearly stated they intend to continue exploring potential reinforcements from the waiver list before Opening Day.

The team's bullpen has seven locked-in members: Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, Luis García, Tobias Myers, Huascar Brazobán, and Sean Manaea. Manaea will begin the season in a relief role and may return to the rotation by mid-April.