In 2024, the New York Mets have ample cause for enthusiasm regarding their bullpen, with a talented group of contenders vying for spots on the final roster, presenting a welcome challenge for decision-makers.
Star closer Edwin Diaz is eager to return to his dominant form following a setback from a severe knee injury that sidelined him for the entirety of the 2023 season. Adam Ottavino is set to command the eighth inning, but a considerable number of candidates are making strong cases for inclusion during Spring Training.
Mark W. Sanchez, reporting for the New York Post, outlined the Mets’ array of options for the fifth bullpen slot after awarding the fourth position to Michael Tonkin:
“Austin Adams, Phil Bickford, Shintaro Fujinami, Reed Garrett, Grant Hartwig, Nate Lavender, Yohan Ramirez, Sean Reid-Foley, Yacksel Rios, Chad Smith, Cole Sulser, and Josh Walker,” Sanchez listed.
The Mets are counting on their relievers for the fifth and sixth innings to step up in 2024, as their collective 4.49 ERA ranked ninth in the MLB last season.
Bickford and Hartwig both made significant contributions to the Mets’ victories last year, positioning them favorably for roles in the bullpen. Mets head coach Carlos Mendoza and the organization have less than three weeks to make their decisions before the Opening Day clash with the Milwaukee Brewers on March 28th.