Mets call up former star reliever Kimbrel

The New York Mets promoted veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel on Saturday, the team announced.

Kimbrel signed a minor-league deal with the Mets in January. He's yet to pitch in the majors this season.

"It's a great opportunity just to come in here and try to help these guys out and throw up scoreless innings," Kimbrel said, according to SNY. "Just happy to get the opportunity and see what I can do with it."

The 37-year-old right-hander appeared in 14 games split between the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros in 2025.

He owns a career 2.58 ERA with a 1.02 WHIP and 14 K/9 over 16 years. His 440 saves are second to Kenley Jansen among active pitchers.

"I get an adrenaline boost every time I get an opportunity to pitch in a big-league ballgame," Kimbrel added. "Someone told me a long time ago, as soon as that goes away, it's time to go home."

Kimbrel is a nine-time All-Star, a World Series champion (2018 Boston Red Sox), the 2011 NL Rookie of the Year, and a four-time Reliever of the Year (2012, 2013, 2014, and 2017). His resume gives him a strong chance to be inducted into the Hall of Fame when his playing career is over.

Left-hander Richard Lovelady was designated for assignment to make room for Kimbrel on the active roster.