Full Breakdown
Craig Kimbrel Excluded from New York Mets Opening Day Roster
3/24/2026, 10:10:42 AM
Mets Finalize Roster Decisions
The New York Mets have officially announced their Opening Day roster for the 2026 MLB season, confirming that veteran relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel will not be included. Kimbrel, a 37-year-old right-hander and nine-time All-Star, was signed to a minor league contract but struggled during spring training, posting a 4.50 ERA over six appearances. This decision reflects the Mets' depth in their bullpen and their commitment to making difficult roster choices, even when it involves a player with Kimbrel's extensive accomplishments.
Performance and Roster Implications
Kimbrel's performance in spring training included a 5/5 strikeout-to-walk ratio, which raised concerns about his readiness for the major leagues. Despite his storied career, which includes 440 saves—placing him among the top five in MLB history—and a World Series title with the Boston Red Sox in 2018, his recent struggles have led the Mets to opt for other bullpen options. The team informed Kimbrel of their decision on March 22, 2026, indicating that he would return to the minor leagues unless he chooses to pursue opportunities elsewhere.
Official Statements & Responses
Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported that Kimbrel's time with the Mets organization is not necessarily over, stating, "Craig Kimbrel is staying with the Mets organization — at least for now. Good news. He didn’t look that far away from being able to help." This sentiment suggests that while Kimbrel will not be on the major league roster, the Mets may still see potential in him for future contributions.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts have expressed disappointment regarding Kimbrel's exclusion from the roster, suggesting that his experience and past performance could have provided valuable depth to the bullpen. Critics argue that the Mets might be overlooking the potential for Kimbrel to regain his form, especially given his historical success as a closer.
What's Next for Kimbrel
As the season progresses, Kimbrel faces a crucial decision: whether to accept a minor league assignment or seek opportunities with other teams. His future in the MLB may hinge on his ability to demonstrate that he can still perform at a high level, despite the recent setbacks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Craig Kimbrel has been told he won't be on the roster to start the season,” — Mike Puma, The New York Post
- “Kimbrel struggled in spring training, allowing three earned runs in six innings with more walks than strikeouts.” — National Today
The Mets' decision regarding Kimbrel underscores the competitive nature of MLB roster selections and the challenges faced by veteran players as they navigate the latter stages of their careers.
