Craig Kimbrel’s Hall-of-Fame Numbers Couldn’t Save Him From Mets

This article recaps the New York Mets’ decision to designate veteran closer Craig Kimbrel for assignment after a rough stretch. It looks at what this means for the team’s bullpen and how Kimbrel’s Hall of Fame-caliber resume could shape his next steps in baseball.

The piece also covers the bullpen shuffle that followed, including a recall from Triple-A. It touches on how managers and executives talked about the move publicly.

Mets DFA Kimbrel after rough stretch

The Mets designated 37-year-old right-hander Craig Kimbrel for assignment after he posted a 6.00 ERA across 14 appearances this season. In his most recent outing, he gave up two earned runs over 2 2/3 innings against the Washington Nationals.

Manager Carlos Mendoza and president of baseball operations David Stearns told Kimbrel about the decision after Thursday’s game in Washington. The Mets want to reset their late-inning options and get the bullpen back on track.

To add depth, the Mets recalled Jonah Tong from Triple-A Syracuse. Tong’s arrival points to a bigger bullpen shuffle as the Mets try to stabilize things in late-game situations.

This DFA could also ripple around the league, with teams now wondering if Kimbrel can bounce back with another club.

Details of the move and what lies ahead

Kimbrel’s 440 career saves stand out as a huge achievement. That number alone might keep him in consideration for future jobs, whether with the Mets or somewhere else.

Mendoza said Kimbrel has shown professionalism and earned respect from the organization. He even left the door open for a possible return if Kimbrel clears waivers and stays unclaimed.

Stearns and Mendoza both mentioned that other teams might want a closer with Kimbrel’s résumé. Mendoza pointed to a recent outing where Kimbrel faced three batters in a row and got them all out—something he’d never done before, apparently.

That moment showed Kimbrel still has a competitive edge, even as his results have forced the Mets to make a change.

Kimbrel’s Hall of Fame resume and the Mets’ perspective

Kimbrel’s long record of success makes this DFA a big moment for Mets fans and baseball watchers. With 440 career saves, playoff experience, and a knack for late-inning drama, he brings more to the table than just recent stats.

Mendoza called Kimbrel a consummate professional who carried himself with class and respect. That mutual respect stands out, even as the Mets move on for now.

The Mets’ approach highlights a reality in today’s game: veteran relievers with elite track records still carry value, even when teams need to mix up their bullpen due to performance or roster issues. The club’s open stance about Kimbrel finding another opportunity really shows how unpredictable relief pitching can be—and how teams always need proven closers who know how to handle pressure.

Next steps for Kimbrel, the Mets, and the bullpen

Now comes the waiver process. If Kimbrel clears waivers and no one claims him, the Mets say they’d welcome him back.

If another team needs late-inning help, they might take a shot on him, given his track record and reputation. The recall of Jonah Tong from Syracuse gives the Mets a fresh bullpen arm who can eat up some innings and help bridge games.

For fans, a few things stand out. Bullpen churn is just a fact of life as teams chase stability. A storied career can still open doors, even after a tough stretch. And, honestly, a bullpen’s health can hinge on just a handful of outings and the willingness to pivot when a trusted veteran falters.

As Kimbrel explores his options, baseball watchers will keep an eye not just on his performance, but on how teams balance his legacy with what they need right now.

Takeaways for fans

Here are a few things fans might want to keep in mind as this story develops:

• Kimbrel’s ERA and appearances: He’s carrying a 6.00 ERA over 14 outings. That rough stretch led to the DFA.
• Rationale for the move: The Mets wanted more stability in the bullpen. They needed fresh arms instead of sticking with a struggling late-inning option.
• Waivers and potential return: The Mets haven’t closed the door on Kimbrel. If he clears waivers, he could come back.
• Legacy and future opportunities: Kimbrel has 440 career saves. That kind of resume keeps him on the radar for teams looking for a proven closer, even now.
• The bigger picture: Tong’s recall points to a wider push to steady the bullpen. The Mets are trying to keep their options open for those tricky late-game moments.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Craig Kimbrel’s Hall of Fame-type numbers couldn’t save him from become a Mets roster casualty