Boston Red Sox base runner Nate Eaton (right) celebrates with Alex Bregman after scoring in the ninth inning (Image via Imagn). Sean Newcomb’s 2025 season changed how teams look at him. After moving between the Boston Red Sox and Athletics, the left-hander settled into a relief role and delivered steady innings across the full year. For a Mets bullpen that needs durability more than upside plays, Newcomb fits a clear need.This would not be a trade, since Newcomb is a free agent, but the idea mirrors a deadline-style pickup. The Mets would be adding a usable arm without giving up prospects or committing long-term money, at a time when reliever prices continue to rise.
Contract Framework
The proposed deal is simple and short. • One year, $7 million • Club option for 2027 • No trade assets involvedThis structure keeps the Mets flexible while securing a reliever who proved he can handle volume. Newcomb threw more than 92 innings in 2025, one of the highest totals among left-handed relievers.
Why the New York Mets Make Sense
The New York Mets’ bullpen covered a lot of innings last season, but left-handed depth remained thin. Only a small group of lefty relievers across the league reached even 70 innings. Sean Newcomb was well above that mark. 
Sean Newcomb when he was with the Boston Red Sox (Image via Getty)
What he brings: • A left-hander who can pitch more than one inning • Less strain on late-inning arms • Experience pitching in different roles • Familiarity with A.J. Minter from AtlantaCiti Field also helps. While Newcomb gives up more fly balls than grounders, the park limits damage compared to smaller stadiums.
What Sean Newcomb Gets Out of It
For Sean Newcomb, the Mets offer a clear role on a team trying to win. After spending time on rebuilding clubs, he would move back into a competitive environment.The benefits: • Regular bullpen usage • A defined role • A neutral-to-friendly home park • A short deal that keeps future options openAt 32, Newcomb is still pitching for stability more than security.
No Role for Boston Red Sox or Oakland
Because Sean Newcomb reached free agency, neither the Boston Red Sox nor Athletics are involved in the move. Still, his path through both clubs shaped the situation. • Boston Red Sox moved on early after uneven results • Oakland benefited from his second-half improvement • Both teams cleared space for younger players
2025 Season Results
Newcomb’s numbers reflect a season that improved as it went on.TeamIPERAK/9WHIPOpp AVG Red Sox 41 3.95 9.0 1.56 .294 Athletics 51 1.41 10.4 1.06 .212 Total 92 2.73 8.9 1.35 .233 vs LHHAfter the All-Star break, he was especially reliable, finishing that stretch with a 0.96 ERA and a couple of late-inning saves.
Platoon Splits
Newcomb has consistently been better against left-handed hitters. 
Detroit Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter (30) tagged out by Boston Red Sox second base David Hamilton (17) (Image via Imagn)
Batter SideABAVGOBPSLG Left-handed hitters 200 .233 .332 .378 Right-handed hitters 215 .253 .346 .392That makes him useful in the NL East, where left-handed power is common.
Pros and Cons
Pros: • Durable arm who handles heavy workloads • Effective against left-handed hitters • Affordable in a tight reliever market • Can pitch in multiple situationsCons: • Past knee injuries • Struggled early in 2025 with Boston • Entering his age-33 season • Fly-ball profile can backfire when command slipsFor the New York Mets, this is a low-risk move that fills a real need. A one-year commitment to a reliever who can throw innings has value, especially when bullpen depth often breaks down over a season.Also read: MLB trade rumors: San Francisco Giants emerge as top suitor for $33.6 million Toronto Blue Jays superstar in free agencyNewcomb is not a headline signing. He is a useful one. If the Mets are serious about protecting their rotation and spreading bullpen workload, this type of signing matters.