A.J. Minter Signs Two-Year, $22 Million Deal with Mets: Drama Unfolds Post-Finalization
The New York Mets have made waves this offseason by securing left-handed reliever A.J. Minter on a two-year, $22 million contract, a move that has ignited both excitement and speculation within the baseball world. Despite the deal being finalized, the story is far from over as questions linger about Minter’s health and its implications for the Mets’ bullpen strategy.
Minter, 31, has been a cornerstone of the Atlanta Braves’ bullpen since his MLB debut in 2017. With a career ERA of 3.28 and 422 strikeouts over 348⅔ innings, he has consistently proven himself as one of the most dependable left-handed relievers in the league. His 2024 season, though shortened by hip inflammation and subsequent surgery in August, saw him post an impressive 2.62 ERA over 39 appearances. The Mets, confident in his ability to bounce back, are betting big on Minter to shore up their bullpen alongside star closer Edwin Díaz.
The contract includes an opt-out clause after the first year, a feature that adds an intriguing layer to this acquisition. If Minter performs at an elite level in 2025, he could choose to test free agency again, potentially commanding a larger deal. However, this clause also poses a risk for the Mets, as they might lose a key bullpen piece after just one season.
The signing comes at a critical time for the Mets, who are in the midst of an offseason overhaul. Under owner Steve Cohen, the team has made it clear that they are willing to invest heavily to remain competitive. However, this aggressive approach has not been without controversy. Rumors continue to swirl about the future of first baseman Pete Alonso, who remains unsigned in free agency. With Alonso’s potential departure looming, the Mets are under pressure to reconfigure their roster to stay in contention in a highly competitive National League East.
Critics have raised concerns about Minter’s health following his hip surgery. While the Mets’ medical team has reportedly cleared him to play, questions remain about his ability to maintain durability over a full season. If Minter struggles to regain his pre-injury form, the signing could become a costly gamble for the franchise.
Despite the uncertainties, Mets fans have reason to be optimistic. Minter’s addition gives the team a reliable left-handed option in high-leverage situations, a glaring need in their bullpen last season. His experience in postseason play with the Braves, including their 2021 World Series run, adds a level of veteran leadership that could prove invaluable.
As the dust settles on Minter’s contract, all eyes will be on his recovery and early performances in 2025. If he can replicate his career-best numbers, the Mets will have secured a crucial piece in their quest for a playoff berth. However, if injuries resurface, the saga of A.J. Minter’s tenure with the Mets could take an entirely different turn.
For now, the Mets are banking on Minter’s talent and resilience, hoping their gamble pays off in a big way. Whether this deal becomes a pivotal success or a costly misstep remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Minter’s journey with the Mets is
just beginning.
