Should New York Mets Take a Flier on This Veteran Reliever?

Should the New York Mets take a flier on this veteran reliever?
David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
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The New York Mets could use some bullpen help prior to the August 1 trade deadline.

One name that just became available is Amir Garrett, who the Kansas City Royals designated for assignment.

So should the Mets claim Garrett off waivers?

Before getting DFA'd, the left-hander posted a 3.33 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 28 strikeouts across 24.1 innings for the Royals this season.

By adding Garrett, 31, the Mets would be acquiring another lefty in the bullpen to pair with Brooks Raley.

Garrett, who throws three pitches: slider, sinker and four-seam fastball, could also help bolster the Mets' 'pen in middle relief. 

Garrett has certainly had an up-and-down career, but there is some upside there, as he has had good years in the past (2.45 ERA in 2020).

There is really no risk in claiming Garrett off waivers, and all signs point to this being a move they should make in the near future.

The Mets could also wait for Garrett to clear waivers, and if he rejects a minor league assignment he would become a free agent. That way, they could just sign him as a free agent.

The Mets entered play on Sunday ranked No. 21 in baseball with a 4.16 bullpen ERA. By adding a hurler like Garrett, who has somewhat of a track record and upside, they could help improve their bullpen for the stretch run.


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Pat Ragazzo
PAT RAGAZZO

Pat Ragazzo is the reporter, publisher, site manager and executive editor for Sports Illustrated's Mets and Yankees On SI websites. Pat was selected as The Top Reporter & Publisher of the Year 2024 by the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) for outstanding leadership, dedication, and commitment to the industry. He has been seen on several major TV Network stations including: NBC4, CBS2, FOX5, PIX11 and NY1; and is frequently heard on ESPN New York FM 880 AM and WFAN Sports Radio 101.9 FM as a guest. Pat also serves as the Mets insider for the "Allow Me 2 Be Frank" podcast hosted by Frank "The Tank" Fleming of Barstool Sports. You can follow him on Twitter/X: @ragazzoreport.