The struggles continue to pile up for the New York Mets, and now another veteran name has officially exited the organization. Nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel has elected free agency after being designated for assignment by the Mets earlier this month, closing what turned into a short and disappointing stint in Queens.
The announcement comes during an increasingly frustrating stretch for New York, a team that has rapidly fallen out of contention in the National League East. Following Monday’s 7-2 loss to the Cincinnati Reds, the Mets now sit 14 games behind first place and continue searching for answers after losing six of their last 10 games. Their recent sweep at the hands of the rival Miami Marlins only intensified criticism surrounding the club’s bullpen and overall inconsistency.
Much of the frustration from fans recently centered around closer Devin Williams, who surrendered a devastating walk-off grand slam to Heriberto Hernandez on Sunday. However, Kimbrel also became a major target of criticism after struggling badly throughout the season.
The veteran reliever was DFA’d by the Mets on May 22 after posting a disappointing 6.00 ERA across 14 appearances. After clearing outright waivers without another team claiming him, Kimbrel officially chose free agency, giving him the opportunity to continue his career elsewhere.
Despite his legendary résumé, Kimbrel no longer resembles the overpowering closer who once dominated baseball with triple-digit velocity and devastating strikeout numbers. His fastball, which used to regularly overwhelm hitters in the upper 90s, now averages around 93.6 mph, while his once-feared curveball no longer generates swings and misses at the same elite level.
Still, Kimbrel has remained determined to extend his career. Even as his effectiveness has declined, the 38-year-old has shown a willingness to reinvent himself by expanding his pitch mix and accepting minor league opportunities if necessary to prove he still belongs in the majors.
This season with the Mets, Kimbrel recorded 15 strikeouts over 15 innings but also issued six walks, allowed three home runs, and finished with an 0-2 record alongside his inflated ERA. While his days as a dominant late-inning force may be behind him, there is still belief around baseball that an experienced veteran with his postseason résumé could receive another opportunity.
Kimbrel’s MLB journey has already spanned more than a decade and included stops with 10 different franchises. Originally drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2008 MLB Draft, he debuted in 2010 and quickly established himself as one of the most feared closers in baseball.
After starring in Atlanta, Kimbrel spent time with the San Diego Padres before enjoying a successful run with the Boston Red Sox, where he played a major role during their 2018 World Series championship season. From there, his career turned into a cross-country journey that included stints with the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros, and eventually the Mets.
Even with his recent struggles, Kimbrel’s career accomplishments remain remarkable. Across 865 career games, he has collected 440 saves, posted a stellar 2.65 ERA, and piled up 1,297 strikeouts, numbers that have strengthened his case as a potential future Hall of Famer. He also became widely recognized for his unique pre-pitch stance and ability to consistently overpower hitters during his prime years.
Now, with free agency officially underway, the longtime closer faces another uncertain chapter. While his future role may no longer involve locking down the ninth inning for a contender, Kimbrel appears far from ready to walk away from baseball just yet.
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