Pitcher Robert Stock Returns to Mets with New Opportunities

Experienced pitcher Robert Stock is back with the Mets, signing a minor league contract this week that includes a chance for spring training. It’s been nearly five years since he last donned the Mets uniform.

At 36 years old, Stock has struggled at times, posting a 4.90 ERA across 57 career games. His journey in baseball began in 2009 when he was drafted as a catcher, and since then, he has moved around quite a bit.

Over his career, Stock has played for eight different MLB teams and also spent time in South Korea, Mexico, and various independent leagues.

“I’ve had limited success in MLB,” Stock remarked, acknowledging his ups and downs. “But teams keep giving me chances. Why? I think it’s because I keep adapting and finding ways to improve.”

His MLB debut in 2018 with the Padres was promising, as he recorded a 2.50 ERA over 32 games. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been able to maintain that level of play with the Red Sox and Cubs afterward.

Stock’s personal life has been affected by his career as well; his wife joked during the 2020 season that she might consider divorce if he kept walking leadoff batters.

In 2021, Stock had an opportunity with the Mets but faced a setback due to a season-ending hamstring injury after a strong start. Despite being designated for assignment multiple times and dealing with injuries, he’s remained resilient in pursuing his MLB dreams.

“What could be better than playing baseball?” he expressed to a local outlet. “I spent a year in independent baseball, and even though it was the lowest level, it was one of the best experiences I had.”

Last year marked his return to the majors, and although his stint with the Red Sox had its challenges—including a 10.13 ERA—he views 2025 as positive progress.

Stock has been experimenting with his pitches, focusing on a knuckle curve for the upcoming season. He feels this new addition, along with his sidearm delivery, might enhance his performance against both right- and left-handed hitters.

Despite mixed results so far, he shared that early feedback on the knuckle curve was promising, suggesting its potential to address his past difficulties against left-handed batters.

His fastball maintains speed, reaching 95 mph last season, but control issues and a high number of hits allowed have hindered him in the past.

The Mets have seen success in developing players like Reed Garrett and Brooks Lally into reliable bullpen pitchers. Stock believes he can follow a similar path.

“The organization has faith in me, allowing me to keep working towards becoming a mainstay pitcher in the MLB,” he said. “I’m hopeful for 2026 and eager to help the Mets make a playoff run. Let’s go, Mets!”