Craig Kimbrel continues with the Mets despite Opening Day letdown

Craig Kimbrel Remains with the Mets Despite Roster Decision

PORT ST. LUCIE — For the moment, Craig Kimbrel is opting for what some might call Mets purgatory.

The seasoned reliever, now 37, received news on Sunday that he wouldn’t make the Opening Day roster. Instead, he plans to stay with the organization in Florida, working to improve his game and hopefully create an opportunity for himself on the team.

While he could have activated an opt-out clause in his contract—allowing him to seek major league opportunities elsewhere—Kimbrel has decided against that for now. His focus is on continuing to pitch, enhancing his velocity, and being prepared should the Mets call him up.

“I aimed to be part of the Opening Day roster, and, yeah, I’m a bit disappointed. But I get that it’s about performance, and that’s on me,” Kimbrel shared on Monday at the team’s spring training facility. “Ultimately, the decisions come down to how they’re shaping the roster. It’s competitive here with so many talented arms vying for limited spots.”

In this case, Kimbrel was in contention for the last bullpen spot, which might go to lefties Brian Hudson or Richard Laredi—or another pitcher from a different camp, who knows?

During the Grapefruit League, Kimbrel threw six innings, allowing three runs on four hits and five walks, with five strikeouts. His fastball averaged 92.5 mph. He expressed a desire to work on his “consistency” and build his strength, hoping to elevate those performance numbers.

“If I can boost the velocity just a bit more, it would make a significant difference,” he explained. “Right now, I can throw with the power I have, but it’s a different game when guys are trading in 100 mph fastballs from the bullpen.”

Kimbrel did mention that playing for Triple-A Syracuse could be on the table down the line, but his preference is to find a spot in the majors before making that move.

So, why stick with the Mets?

“Honestly, I’m pleased with how things have been going here,” he admitted. “The organization has treated me with nothing but respect, and I’ve tried to maintain an open line of communication about that. I feel comfortable here and believe there’s still a chance for me to contribute at some point.”

As for the team’s lineup, Carson Benge is set to begin the season in right field, though the final bench spot remains undecided.

The Mets plan to bring infielder Vidal Bourjan, outfielder Jared Young, and catcher Ben Rohltvedt to New York before choosing the 26th player. There’s even a possibility that they may opt not to fill that spot and instead pursue players who are cut from other teams.