While veteran pitcher Craig Kimbrel isn’t guaranteed a spot on the New York Mets’ Opening Day roster, manager Carlos Mendoza is encouraged by what he saw during Kimbrel’s recent Spring Training outing.
A strong bullpen is a key ingredient for any team aiming for a World Series run, and the Mets are looking to bolster their relief corps for 2026. Although Kimbrel, 37, no longer has the blazing fastball that once made him one of MLB’s most feared closers, Mendoza noticed promising signs in Saturday’s performance.
“We saw some 92–93 mph on the fastball and good shape on the breaking balls. It was a positive sign today,” Mendoza said after the game.
Kimbrel’s fastball velocity has declined over the years, but his curveball and slider remain effective weapons, even if hitters can better anticipate them. Over the past three seasons, he has still maintained around 12 strikeouts per nine innings. With improved command and pitch placement, Kimbrel could prove a valuable late-inning option and potentially earn a spot on the Mets’ Opening Day roster.
Despite his age and past decline, Kimbrel has shown flashes of reliability that give the team hope for his contribution to the bullpen.
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