The New York Mets have reportedly agreed to a two-year contract with free agent left-handed reliever A.J. Minter, according to sources familiar with the deal. The agreement, which is pending a successful physical, will guarantee Minter $22 million, with the option for him to opt out of the contract after the 2025 season. This move comes as the Mets focus on bolstering their bullpen for the upcoming season.
Minter, 31, has spent his entire eight-year Major League Baseball career with the Atlanta Braves, where he has established himself as a reliable bullpen arm. Throughout 384 appearances, Minter has compiled a record of 24-29 with a 3.28 ERA and 36 saves. Last season, he posted a 5-4 record with a 2.62 ERA and one save in 39 appearances, before undergoing season-ending surgery in August to address issues with his left hip.
The surgery, which was performed by Dr. Thomas Byrd, revealed a torn labrum, a hip impingement, and a lesion on Minter’s femur. The procedure included a microfracture of the hip, which sidelined him for part of the 2023 season. He also dealt with left shoulder inflammation that caused him to miss two weeks in July. However, when healthy, Minter has been known for his effective pitching and has accumulated 422 career strikeouts in 348 2/3 innings.
Minter was a key contributor to the Braves’ bullpen during their 2021 World Series championship run. He has posted a solid 2.88 ERA in 20 postseason appearances, striking out 36 batters in 25 innings. His ability to pitch in high-leverage situations makes him a valuable addition to the Mets’ bullpen as they seek a late-inning lefty to complement their star closer, Edwin Díaz.
This move is part of the Mets’ broader efforts to strengthen their pitching staff. Earlier in the offseason, they added starters Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, and Griffin Canning, as well as former All-Star closer Clay Holmes. Despite these acquisitions, the Mets have continued to focus on upgrading their bullpen to improve their chances in the National League.
Minter’s arrival provides manager Carlos Mendoza with a proven option in the late innings, something the Mets lacked last season. The team made a surprise run to the National League Championship Series but struggled to find consistent support for Díaz in the bullpen. Minter’s addition could help solidify the relief corps and contribute to the team’s postseason aspirations.
The agreement with Minter coincided with another significant move for the Mets, as they also brought back outfielder and designated hitter Jesse Winker on a one-year contract. These signings may signal that the Mets are adjusting their priorities, particularly regarding the future of All-Star slugger Pete Alonso. With resources being allocated to pitching and other areas, it appears less likely that the Mets will re-sign Alonso, who has been a fan favorite and a key player for the team.
In the coming weeks, the Mets will continue to make moves to strengthen their roster for the 2025 season. With Minter’s addition, the bullpen appears to be in better shape heading into the year, giving the Mets more depth and options as they aim for another deep playoff run.