Craig Kimbrel lands with his 11th MLB team after being waived by Mets

Huntsville native and veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel is set to join his 11th MLB organization. Following his release from the New York Mets, the star reliever has agreed to a contract with the Tampa Bay Rays, ensuring his continued presence in the big leagues.

A Quick Pivot to Tampa Bay

While an official announcement from the Rays is pending, outlets including the Athletic, the Tampa Bay Times, and mlb.com have confirmed the move. The former Lee-Huntsville and Wallace State-Hanceville standout became a free agent after being designated for assignment by the Mets and declining a minor-league assignment.

Kimbrel finished his tenure with the Mets holding a 6.00 ERA and an 0-2 record over 14 appearances, where he recorded 15 strikeouts across 15 innings of work.

Strengthening the Bullpen

The Rays, currently leading the AL East with an impressive 34-17 record, look to bolster a bullpen that currently ranks 21st in MLB with a 4.40 ERA. Kimbrel, who turns 38 this Thursday, brings a wealth of experience, boasting 440 career saves—the fifth-most in baseball history.

He joins the team just in time for a Tuesday matchup against the Baltimore Orioles at 5:35 p.m. CDT at Camden Yards.

A Historic Career

Kimbrel is one of only three pitchers in major league history to reach 1,200 strikeouts without ever starting a game. Over 865 career appearances, he holds a 56-50 record with a 2.65 ERA and 1,297 strikeouts.

Having spent his first five seasons with the Atlanta Braves, where he holds the franchise record with 186 saves, Kimbrel has since played for the Padres, Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, Orioles, Astros, and Mets. His decorated career includes four NL All-Star selections, Rookie of the Year honors, two Sporting News National League Pitcher of the Year awards, and a 2018 World Series title with Boston.