The New York Mets’ bullpen has often been a point of contention in recent years. Building a group of reliable relievers is no small feat, especially given the unpredictable nature of relief pitching.
One year’s standout performer can easily falter the next, making the task of assembling a dependable bullpen a tricky endeavor. But if there’s one thing David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, is known for, it’s his knack for constructing formidable bullpens—a skill he honed during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers.
As we dive into the 2025 season, it looks like Stearns might have woven some magic again. While the Mets’ offense struggled to find its rhythm, dropping two of three games in their opening series against the Astros, their bullpen sent a clear message: they mean business. This crew has already chalked up 9.2 scoreless innings, marking the second-longest opening streak for the franchise since the 2007 squad held batters off the board for 12.2 innings.
What’s truly remarkable about this start is the collective effort behind it. Sure, it’s tempting to credit a bullpen’s success to a superstar reliever, but this isn’t the Edwin Diaz show.
Each of the eight relievers that entered the 2025 season bullpen has stepped up, each appearing once, and making their mark. They’ve collectively clocked impressive stats, ranking third in average fastball velocity, fifth in whiff rate, and first in expected slugging percentage against.
These are more than just numbers; they’re indicators of a well-oiled machine ready to rev up the Mets’ playoff prospects.
One of the highlights was A.J. Minter’s impressive debut, where he held down the seventh inning, leaving Mets fans eagerly awaiting more.
The bullpen hasn’t had it easy either—it’s tackled the third-highest number of inherited runners in the league without allowing a single one to cross the plate. And remember, those runs would count against the starter’s ERA, showcasing the bullpen’s efficiency and reliability in bailing out their team.
Even with this flying start, the bullpen isn’t firing on all cylinders yet. Dedniel Núñez, expected to be a crucial part of the setup crew, is currently in Triple-A Syracuse, getting back into shape after missing the back end of last season due to injury. The strategic decision to have him build up in the minors is part of a larger plan to ensure the bullpen’s endurance throughout a grueling season.
The Mets’ bullpen depth will be especially critical as they navigate early-season challenges. With starting pitchers Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas sidelined, the rotation might struggle to eat up innings. However, by avoiding excessive strain on the bullpen, particularly on key contributors, manager Carlos Mendoza can place the team in a strong position to maintain its bullpen prowess from April all the way through September.
In other words, if the Mets can keep the bullpen energized and effective, this team could surprise a few folks this season and become a real force to reckon with in the league.
