Former Mets Hurler Retires Following Three-Year Stint In Organization

The right-hander had an unceremonious exit from New York

The New York Mets' pitching staff did not get the job done last season largely due to underperformance and injuries. 

One of the Mets who was released midseason following a decline in production recently decided to hang up the cleats after spending three years in New York.

"Right-handed pitcher Tommy Hunter is officially retired," The Athletic's Britt Ghiroli reported Thursday. "The father of four said he feels like he 'might have something to give back to the game.'"

Hunter posted a 4.00 ERA, 48-to-14 strikeout-to-walk ratio, .225 batting average against and 1.24 WHIP in 54 innings pitched for the Mets between 2021-2023.

The 37-year-old reliever was on a downward slope in his career and was struggling to stay healthy -- often being sent to the minors following a recurring stint on the injured list.

The Mets did not waste much time with Hunter last season and released him in June after posting a 6.85 ERA in only 23 2/3 innings pitched.

The veteran reliever played 16 seasons with seven different teams including the Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles, Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Tampa Bay Rays, Philadelphia Phillies, and Mets. 

It's unfortunate Hunter's career ended the way it did, but perhaps we will see the former reliever suit up for a different role in the league.

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