The New York Mets are still in talks with All-Star reliever Craig Kimbrel as the bullpen continues to pose a problem.
The New York Mets might need some bullpen help in the near future. Their relievers are 14th in the National League with a 5.37 ERA. Perhaps Craig Kimbrel can be the addition the bullpen needs. According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets are “having continued dialogue with Craig Kimbrel.”
“This is a guy that a lot of people in the organization sees a fit more than Dallas Keuchel,” Martino said. “Is it likely they sign him? I wouldn’t say likely, but they’re one of the teams talking to him.”
Edwin Diaz has faltered in his last two appearances, but he’s been solid as New York’s closer. Seth Lugo and Robert Gsellman are reliable middle relievers to help bridge the gap from starter to Diaz.
However, the rest of the bullpen has been shaky, at best. Jeurys Familia has been downright awful thus far and was recently placed on the injured list.
Whether or not the Mets sign Kimbrel is still a mystery, but if they do, it’s unclear whether or not he will close games. Diaz is firmly slotted in as the closer right now, but Kimbrel has 333 saves on his resume. Manager Mickey Callaway would love to have to make the tough decision between Kimbrel or Diaz as his closer.
The starting pitching hasn’t been great so far this season, but Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard will figure things out. If the Mets are ready to dole out some money to a free agent, Kimbrel is the guy.
