Mets sign 9-time All-Star pitcher in free agency: reports

The New York Mets have signed nine-time All-Star closer Craig Kimbrel to a minor league contract, according to multiple reports Saturday. Jon Heyman of the New York Post was first to report the agreement.

Kimbrel will look to add to his career total of 440 saves in Queens if he makes the Mets’ major league roster.

MORE: Outfielder cut by Dodgers for $240 million free agent joins Yankees

The 2011 Rookie of the Year with the Atlanta Braves, Kimbrel returns to the division where his career began for the first time since pitching a single inning for the Braves in 2025.

Kimbrel split last season with the Braves and Houston Astros, going 0-1 with a 2.25 ERA in 14 games.

Despite ranking fourth on MLB’s all-time saves list, Kimbrel isn’t likely to accrue many saves with the Mets. Former Yankees closers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver signed free agent contracts with the Mets in December to fortify the back end of their bullpen. Free agent right-hander Luis Garcia agreed to terms with the Mets on a contract this week.

Also this week, the Milwaukee Brewers sent right-hander Tobias Myers to the Mets in a blockbuster trade that also brought Freddy Peralta to Queens. If Myers pitches out of the rotation, it could open a spot for Kimbrel in the bullpen.

Otherwise, expect Kimbrel to begin his Mets career at Triple-A Syracuse — or seek a major league job elsewhere with a strong spring training performance.

— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead —

CFB: College Football Playoff makes key expansion decision for 2026 season

NFL: NFL legend delivers blunt verdict on Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes GOAT debate

NBA: Bill Simmons draws up wild NBA trade with Giannis Antetokounmpo

MLB: Ranking top 10 MLB teams entering 2026 Spring Training

TENNIS: Naomi Osaka makes sudden Australian Open decision, reveals why

VIRAL: Former Olympian accused of drug trafficking, murder surrenders to authorities

The post Mets sign 9-time All-Star pitcher in free agency: reports appeared first on The Big Lead.