In a strategic effort to enhance their bullpen ahead of the 2024 season, the New York Mets have brought back right-handed pitcher Ryne Stanek.
A source has revealed that the contract is for one year and is valued at $4.5 million, plus an opportunity for an extra $500,000 in incentives.
However, the team has yet to officially announce this signing.
Stanek’s Impact on the Mets
Since joining the Mets midseason, Stanek has made a significant impact on the team’s pitching lineup.
In seven playoff appearances last October, he posted a commendable 3.38 ERA, notching up a win and two holds.
His postseason performance is particularly impressive when considering his career playoff ERA stands at 2.89.
Over his eight years in the league, he has pitched for various teams, including the Rays, Marlins, Astros, Mariners, and of course, the Mets, earning a regular season ERA of 3.65.
Performance Highlights
Stanek joined the Mets through a trade in late July.
Initially, he faced some struggles, giving up seven runs across his first five games.
Yet, he quickly turned things around, showcasing a blazing fastball that frequently clocked in at triple digits.
By the time the playoffs rolled around, he had settled into a groove, posting a stellar 2.92 ERA in his last 12 regular-season appearances.
During the postseason, his reliability became vital for the Mets, particularly in high-pressure moments when closer Edwin Díaz was unavailable.
Notably, in Game 5 of the National League Championship Series against the Dodgers, Stanek’s performance was crucial—he secured seven significant outs, which played a key role in pushing the series to a sixth game.
Future Prospects
Having made 30 appearances in the postseason, Stanek ranks ninth among active players.
His experience includes being part of the 2022 team that clinched the World Series with the Astros.
At 33 years of age, Stanek continues to build an impressive career.
Last season, he consistently placed in the 96th percentile for fastball speed, hitting a remarkable peak at 100.6 mph.
His effectiveness on the mound is further underscored by a whiff rate of 33.2 percent, attributed largely to his slider and split-finger fastball.
This success also places him within the 94th percentile of all Major League pitchers.
Stanek’s re-signing not only strengthens the Mets’ bullpen but also sets up an exciting partnership with left-handed setup man A.J. Minter.
Alongside Díaz, the trio is expected to form a robust backbone for the team’s relief strategy.
Other returning players like Reed Garrett, Dedniel Núñez, José Buttó, Sean Reid-Foley, and Danny Young will compete for spots, with new acquisitions also joining the mix.
While the signings of Stanek and Minter reflect a commitment to building a stronger team, owner Steve Cohen has acknowledged the complexities involved in managing the roster amidst a structured payroll.
He has emphasized the challenges of integrating new talent into an already high-valued group, especially regarding the potential renewal of first baseman Pete Alonso’s contract.
In conclusion, the Mets are taking significant steps to build a competitive roster through strategic acquisitions.
Their goal is clear: to ensure they have the right mix of depth and talent in place for the upcoming season.
