NEW YORK — The journey to Major League Baseball (MLB) often varies, but few stories resonate as uniquely as that of Jonathan Pintaro. Despite being undrafted from Shorter University, a Division II college in Georgia, Pintaro’s persistence has finally paid off as he steps into the New York Mets’ clubhouse.
After spending two seasons in the MLB Draft League and then two more years with the Glacier Range Riders in the independent Pioneer League, where he faced challenges, including a 6.60 ERA, Pintaro’s leap to the big leagues appeared improbable. “It’s a pretty cool story, right? I think this is an organizational win,” noted Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, highlighting the significance of Pintaro’s accomplishments in independent baseball.
On Wednesday, Pintaro received an unexpected promotion as the struggling Mets made a shake-up in their bullpen, designating left-handers Jose Castillo and Richard Lovelady for assignment. This paved the way for Pintaro’s elevation to the major league roster at the age of 27.
Born in Pelham, Alabama, Pintaro’s path was anything but conventional. After five seasons at Shorter University from 2017-2022 and two years in independent leagues, he signed a minor league contract with the Mets in June 2024. His family shared tears of joy during the call announcing his signing, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
In the Mets’ farm system last year, Pintaro shone with a record of 3-6 and a commendable 2.68 ERA, racking up 75 strikeouts over 74 innings. This performance caught attention, leading him to the Arizona Fall League, showcasing emerging talents.
This season, he held a 3.40 ERA in 11 starts at Double-A Binghamton, accumulating 57 strikeouts against 15 walks. This impressive performance earned him a promotion to Triple-A before the unexpected detour to New York City. Pintaro expressed disbelief when he learned he was heading to the Mets, saying, “I thought it was a joke.”
Mendoza described Pintaro’s pitching style as unique, with a combination of a sinker and cut fastball, indicating his potential impact on the team’s bullpen as they seek length in their pitching due to current challenges.
This uplifting narrative is a testament to determination and resilience, reminding us all that dreams can come true through hard work and a steadfast commitment to one’s goals. Pintaro stands as an inspiration, a player who experienced the highs and lows of a lengthy journey, finally reaching the pinnacle of his sport.