Mets call up former all-star to make his season debut

The New York Mets are making a notable move to reinforce their bullpen, calling up veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel from the minor leagues. In a season where every late-inning decision matters, the Mets are turning to one of the most experienced closers of this era to help stabilize the back end of their pitching staff.

Kimbrel brings an extensive résumé with him. A former All-Star and one of the most accomplished closers in recent MLB history, he has built a career on high-leverage dominance. Known for his signature delivery and swing-and-miss stuff, Kimbrel has consistently shown the ability to handle pressure situations.

Visit betsport.cv for more information.

MORE: MLB insider Buster Olney ranks the top 5 free agent signings ever

Why the Mets Made the Move

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

The Mets decision signals a clear need for bullpen reinforcement. Whether it’s been inconsistency, injuries, or a lack of reliable late-inning options, the team is looking for stability in high-leverage spots.

Calling up Kimbrel gives them a veteran arm who has been in just about every situation imaginable. It’s a low-risk move with potential upside—if Kimbrel can still deliver.

What Role Will He Play?

The immediate question is how the Mets will deploy him. While it is unlikely that he steps directly into a full-time closer role, Kimbrel could be used in key late-inning situations. If he performs well, he could quickly work his way into more prominent opportunities.

For a contending team, having multiple options at the end of games is critical.

A Chance to Reestablish Value

Feb 11, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets pitcher Craig Kimbrel (46) throws during spring training. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

For Kimbrel, this is more than just another call-up—it’s an opportunity. After spending time in the minors, he now has a chance to prove he can still contribute at the major league level. Strong performances could not only help the Mets but also reestablish his value as a reliable bullpen arm.

Bullpen additions often fly under the radar, but they can have a significant impact over the course of a season. If Kimbrel can provide even a fraction of his peak production, the Mets could find themselves with a valuable weapon in tight games.

The Bottom Line

The Mets are taking a calculated gamble—and one rooted in experience. Calling up Craig Kimbrel may not guarantee results, but it gives New York something it needs right now: a veteran presence capable of handling big moments.

And if Kimbrel still has something left in the tank, this move could quietly become one of the more important bullpen decisions of the season.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

Read full story at source