Mets' Tyler Jay Had Inspiring Quote About Making MLB Debut at Age 29

Patrick Andres | Apr 11, 2024

Feb 25, 2024; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets pitcher Tyler Jay pitches. / Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports

New York Mets pitcher Tyler Jay is living proof of the aphorism "better late than never."

After the Minnesota Twins selected him with the No. 6 draft pick in 2015, Jay slowly wound his way through the minor leagues. In 2019, his career came to a complete halt after a diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis—a condition that severely impaired his ability to swallow.

Gradually, he recovered and signed with the Joliet Slammers of the Frontier League. That led to a deal with the Mets, and he pitched for the Triple-A Syracuse Mets from 2023 to '24.

On Thursday, during New York's 16–4 win over the Atlanta Braves, Jay finally made his MLB debut at age 29—which he discussed in touching fashion after the game.

Tyler Jay had twin daughters four months ago.

On making his MLB debut at nearly 30 years old: "They get to know that dad never quit" pic.twitter.com/B0E3YacaBU

— SNY (@SNYtv) April 11, 2024

"I got married in 2021. I just had two daughters who are four months old," Jay said. "They get to know that Dad never quit, which means a lot to me."

Jay pitched two innings for the Mets, giving up five hits and an earned run while walking one batter and striking out another.