The New York Mets have strengthened their bullpen by signing left-handed reliever A.J. Minter to a two-year, $22 million deal. Minter, known for his effective pitching with the Atlanta Braves, will provide a crucial late-inning option for the Mets. Despite recent injuries, Minter's impressive track record and postseason experience make him a valuable addition to the team.
The New York Mets have made a significant addition to their bullpen by signing left-handed reliever A.J. Minter to a two-year, $22 million contract. The deal, which includes an opt-out option after the first season, is pending a physical. Minter, who has been a reliable bullpen presence for the Atlanta Braves, brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Mets' roster. His signing is part of the Mets' strategy to enhance their bullpen depth and effectiveness, especially in late-inning situations.
A.J. Minter has established himself as one of the most effective left-handed relievers in Major League Baseball. Since making his debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2017, Minter has maintained a 3.28 ERA with 422 strikeouts in 348 2/3 innings. Known for his versatility, Minter has excelled in both setup and closing roles, achieving a career-high 15 saves in 2018. In the 2024 season, he posted a 2.62 ERA with 35 strikeouts in 34 1/3 innings, demonstrating his continued effectiveness despite injury setbacks. Minter's pitching arsenal includes a fastball averaging 94.5 mph, a cutter, and a changeup, which held batters to a .120 average in 2024[1][2].
The addition of A.J. Minter provides the Mets with a significant boost to their bullpen, which already features closer Edwin Díaz. Minter is expected to serve as a crucial late-inning bridge to Díaz, enhancing the team's ability to close out games effectively. His postseason experience, with a 2.88 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 25 innings, adds further value to the Mets' playoff aspirations. The Mets had been linked to other left-handed relievers, but Minter's signing may signal a shift in their bullpen strategy. Despite recent injuries, Minter's track record and recovery suggest he will be a reliable asset for the Mets[3][4].
While A.J. Minter's signing is a positive move for the Mets, there are concerns regarding his recent injury history. In 2024, Minter underwent hip surgery, which ended his season prematurely. This followed a shoulder injury in 2023 that also sidelined him temporarily. Despite these setbacks, Minter has shown resilience and effectiveness when healthy. His velocity and performance metrics did decline slightly during his injury-plagued seasons, but he remains a formidable pitcher when fit. The Mets are optimistic about his recovery and believe that his experience with overcoming injuries will enable him to return to peak form[1][2].
A.J. Minter's signing represents a strategic move by the New York Mets to strengthen their bullpen with a proven left-handed reliever. Despite his recent injuries, Minter's track record and postseason experience make him a valuable addition to the team. His ability to serve as a late-inning option alongside closer Edwin Díaz enhances the Mets' chances of success in high-pressure situations. As the Mets continue to build their roster, Minter's presence is expected to play a crucial role in their pursuit of playoff success.
"This is a touch lower than Minter deserves to be based on his track record as a high-leverage lefty." - CBS Sports
"Minter will be one of the main late-inning bridges to Edwin Diaz." - SNY's Andy Martino