New York Mets parting ways with nine-time all-star from Alabama
The relief pitcher had worked in 14 games for the National League team this season.
Olivia Bennett 
The New York Mets have officially designated nine-time All-Star Craig Kimbrel for assignment, the club announced on Friday.
Roster Move and Prospect Call-Up
The move clears a spot on the 40-man roster for pitching prospect Jonah Tong. While Tong posted a 5.68 ERA in eight starts for the Triple-A Syracuse Mets this season, his high-upside strikeout ability is clear, recording 55 strikeouts in 38 innings. During his 2025 campaign with the Double-A Binghamton Rumble Ponies, Tong fanned 162 batters across 102 innings.
Now that he has been designated for assignment, the Mets have one week to trade, release, or place Kimbrel on waivers. Given his extensive veteran status, Kimbrel could ultimately opt for free agency if he clears waivers and is offered a minor-league assignment.
Kimbrel’s Brief Mets Tenure
Kimbrel, a product of Lee-Huntsville and Wallace State-Hanceville, signed a minor-league deal with New York this past January. After reporting to the big leagues on April 11 following a brief minor-league stint, he made 14 relief appearances for the team, posting a 6.00 ERA and an 0-2 record. Over 15 innings, he allowed 16 hits and six walks while tallying 15 strikeouts.
His final appearance for the Mets was a career-high eight-out outing during an 8-4 loss to the Washington Nationals on Wednesday.
Managerial Reaction
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his respect for the veteran pitcher following the news. "Super tough," Mendoza said. "Not only what he was able to do on the field, but off the field -- the person, the human. He understood. He was very professional. But it wasn’t an easy one for me. ... Nothing but respect, and we wish him nothing but the best."
A Storied Career
Kimbrel, who turns 38 on Thursday, remains one of the most prolific relievers in baseball history. He currently sits fifth on the all-time MLB saves list and is one of only three pitchers to reach 1,200 strikeouts without ever making a start. Across 865 career relief appearances, he boasts a 2.65 ERA and 440 saves.
After breaking into the league with the Atlanta Braves—where he set the franchise record with 186 saves—Kimbrel’s career path included stops with the Padres, Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies, Astros, and most recently, the Mets. He earned a World Series championship ring with Boston in 2018.
