Jonathan Pintaro’s journey to the major leagues is honestly wild. He went undrafted, bounced around independent leagues, and fought through the MLB draft circuit for years.
Now, at 27, he’s snagged a spot in the New York Mets’ bullpen. The Mets called him up during a recent bullpen shuffle, putting a spotlight on his perseverance and his funky pitching style.
Pintaro started out with a rough 6.60 ERA in the Pioneer League, but he kept climbing through the Mets’ minor league system. That kind of stubborn passion for the game? It’s something you can’t help but root for.
From Division II to the MLB: Pintaro’s Humble Beginnings
Pintaro’s baseball story started at Shorter University in Georgia, a Division II school that doesn’t exactly turn heads in the scouting world. Even with his talent, he didn’t hear his name called in the draft.
Instead of giving up, he headed to the MLB Draft League—a place for overlooked players to prove themselves. Two seasons there led him to the independent Glacier Range Riders in the Pioneer League.
A Rocky Start in the Pioneer League
Things didn’t look great at first. Pintaro put up a 6.60 ERA with the Range Riders, which could end a lot of dreams right there.
But he didn’t quit. He kept working, sharpening his skills, and just refusing to let those numbers be the end of his story.
Playing indy ball means you’re battling for attention, often without the perks of affiliated teams. Still, Pintaro’s drive pushed him forward.
Turning the Corner with the New York Mets
June 2024 changed everything. The Mets signed him to a minor league deal, and suddenly, he had a shot.
He made the most of it. In 2024, across three levels, Pintaro posted a 2.68 ERA and struck out 75 batters in 74 innings.
That earned him a trip to the Arizona Fall League, where top prospects show their stuff. The next year, he kept rolling, racking up 57 strikeouts and a 3.40 ERA over 42⅓ innings at Double-A Binghamton.
Triple-A Success and the MLB Call-Up
After holding his own in Double-A, Pintaro got the bump to Triple-A. He looked ready for the next challenge.
When the Mets needed bullpen help, they brought him up, clearing space by designating Jose Castillo and Richard Lovelady. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza liked what he saw—Pintaro’s “funky” delivery and his mix of sinkers and cutters stood out.
Pintaro’s Pitching Style: A Unique Weapon
What makes Pintaro different? It’s that quirky delivery, the one Mendoza keeps mentioning. Hitters just can’t seem to pick up the ball as well.
He throws a sneaky sinker and cutter combo, which could make him a real asset in tight spots. The Mets hope his versatility gives their bullpen a boost as the season grinds on.
A Dream Come True
At 27, Pintaro’s finally set for his MLB debut. After all the setbacks, the hustle, and the late nights, this chance means everything.
He was overlooked for so long, but now he’s living out the dream so many chase. It’s hard not to feel something about that.
Why Pintaro’s Story Matters
Pintaro’s rise isn’t just for Mets fans. It’s a story for anyone grinding away in the shadows, hoping for their shot.
From rough indie league stats to a big league debut, he’s proof that grit and stubborn hope can carry you further than most people expect.
What Fans Can Expect
Mets fans have plenty of reasons to get excited about seeing Pintaro in action. His pitching style is a bit unconventional, and he brings a sharp mindset that could shake things up in the bullpen.
When Pintaro steps onto the mound in a Major League uniform for the first time, he’s carrying more than just the pressure of the game. He’s got the hopes of dreamers everywhere riding on every pitch, especially in those moments where a little deception makes all the difference.
Pintaro’s story isn’t only about baseball; it’s really about grit. He’s a living reminder that determination can push you through even the toughest odds.
If I were a fan, I’d keep an eye on this guy as he writes the next chapter in his journey. The big leagues are waiting, and honestly, Pintaro seems more than ready for the challenge.
Here is the source article for this story: Mets call up Pintaro, cut 2 LHPs in latest shuffle
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