Craig Kimbrel didn’t make the New York Mets’ Opening Day roster.
Feb 28, 2026; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) pitches in the fourth inning against the Washington Nationals at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images | Jim Rassol-Imagn Images
But he’s not going anywhere.
Just a day after learning he wouldn’t break camp with the big league club, the veteran reliever made a decision that speaks as much about belief as it does about opportunity — he’s staying in the organization.
Kimbrel confirmed he’ll remain in Florida to stay game-ready, rather than immediately exploring options elsewhere. It’s a notable choice, especially considering the Mets were willing to release him from his minor league deal if he wanted to pursue another opportunity.
Instead, he’s betting on himself.
“My goal was to make the Opening Day roster,” Kimbrel said. “I’m a little disappointed… but that’s on me.”
At 37, Kimbrel is no longer the overpowering force he once was.
This spring offered a mixed picture. He allowed three runs over six innings, striking out five but also issuing five walks and hitting two batters. His fastball sat around 93 mph — solid, but far removed from the elite velocity that defined his peak years.
Still, there are signs he can contribute.
In 2025, Kimbrel showed flashes of effectiveness across both minor league and major league appearances. He posted a strong ERA in limited MLB action and demonstrated he can still miss bats, even if command remains inconsistent.
That combination — experience, upside, and unpredictability — makes him a viable depth option.
And that’s exactly how the Mets are treating him.
Kimbrel is expected to report to Triple-A Syracuse, where he’ll stay stretched out and ready in case the bullpen needs reinforcement. If an opportunity arises, he could be one of the first calls.
For now, though, the Mets’ bullpen picture is largely set.
Seven relievers have already locked in roster spots, leaving just one opening. That final slot is likely to go to a left-handed option, with Bryan Hudson and Richard Lovelady competing for the role.
It’s a numbers game — and Kimbrel was on the outside.
But not out of the picture entirely.
Manager Carlos Mendoza pointed to Kimbrel’s decision to stay as a reflection of both the clubhouse culture and the veteran’s mindset. In a league where players often move quickly to secure immediate opportunities, choosing patience stands out.
And it could pay off.
Bullpens rarely remain stable for long. Injuries, workload, and performance fluctuations create openings throughout the season. When that happens, having a proven arm already in the system can be a significant advantage.
Kimbrel understands that.
He’s not chasing a roster spot on Opening Day anymore. He’s positioning himself for the long game.
For a pitcher with over 400 career saves and a resume that speaks for itself, the path back doesn’t need to be immediate.
It just needs to be ready when the moment comes.
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