The New York Mets have officially confirmed the signings of two notable players from free agency, rejuvenating their roster with experienced talent on Thursday. Reliever Craig Kimbrel and catcher Austin Barnes, both of whom have won World Series championships, are set to join the Mets.
Kimbrel, a veteran right-handed pitcher, is widely regarded as one of the all-time great relief pitchers, most notably for his stellar performances with the Atlanta Braves. Now at 37 years old, he had a mixed season in 2025, making only 14 appearances across the MLB—one with Atlanta and 13 with Houston. During those limited appearances, he showcased his talent with a promising 2.25 ERA and 17 strikeouts across 12 innings, a marked improvement from his 2024 season where he posted a 5.33 ERA over 57 games with the Baltimore Orioles. While his days as a closer may be behind him, his experience could prove invaluable as he takes on a relief role.
On the other hand, 36-year-old Austin Barnes brings depth to the Mets’ catching lineup. Having spent his entire MLB career with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Barnes earned two World Series championships but is primarily recognized for his defensive skills behind the plate. In 2025, he appeared in only 42 at-bats, averaging .214, and is expected to compete with current catchers Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens. While his role may primarily serve as depth, strong spring training performances could see him in contention for a backup position.
These signings reflect the Mets’ commitment to bringing aboard seasoned players who have a track record of success in Major League Baseball, positioning them for a potentially strong season ahead. The addition of Kimbrel and Barnes not only enhances the team’s roster but also brings a winning mentality that could positively influence younger players in the clubhouse. With renewed energy and experienced talent, the Mets are looking forward to building a competitive team in the upcoming season.