As the New York Mets prepare for the 2025 MLB season, team executives are actively working to address one of their most glaring needs: bullpen depth. Recent reports suggest the Mets are targeting three veteran relievers—Tommy Kahnle, David Robertson, and Chris Martin—to bolster their late-inning options and provide stability to a relief corps that struggled with consistency last season.
Aiming for Experience
Under the leadership of manager Carlos Mendoza and General Manager Billy Eppler, the Mets have prioritized acquiring seasoned arms to complement their youthful core. The trio of Kahnle, Robertson, and Martin brings not only experience but also proven track records of success in high-leverage situations.
- Tommy Kahnle: Known for his electric fastball-changeup combination, Kahnle has been a reliable reliever when healthy. Despite battling injuries in recent years, his 2024 campaign with the Los Angeles Dodgers showcased his ability to dominate hitters, posting a 2.67 ERA with 11.4 strikeouts per nine innings.
- David Robertson: A familiar face for Mets fans, Robertson briefly pitched for the team in 2023 before being traded to the Miami Marlins. The veteran closer has consistently delivered under pressure, boasting a career ERA of 2.89 and a wealth of postseason experience.
- Chris Martin: At 6’8″, Martin is an imposing presence on the mound. The 38-year-old right-hander had a stellar 2024 season with the Boston Red Sox, compiling a 1.95 ERA and demonstrating exceptional control with just five walks in over 60 innings pitched.
The Need for Reinforcements
The Mets’ bullpen struggled mightily in 2024, finishing with a 4.35 ERA that ranked 22nd in the league. Injuries to key relievers and inconsistent performances from younger arms left the team relying heavily on closer Edwin Díaz, who returned to form after missing most of 2023 with a knee injury. Adding experienced relievers like Kahnle, Robertson, and Martin would not only ease the burden on Díaz but also provide manager Mendoza with more options to navigate late-game situations.
Financial Considerations
While the Mets have not shied away from spending under owner Steve Cohen, they will need to balance these potential acquisitions with their overall payroll strategy. All three relievers are expected to draw significant interest in the free-agent market, and the Mets may need to outbid several contenders to secure their services. However, Cohen’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team suggests the Mets are willing to make the necessary investments.
Looking Ahead
With Spring Training just weeks away, the Mets are focused on constructing a roster capable of competing in a highly competitive National League East. Adding Kahnle, Robertson, and Martin would not only address immediate bullpen concerns but also signal the team’s commitment to contending in 2025 and beyond.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Mets can finalize deals with these key targets. If successful, these moves could significantly improve the team’s chances of making a deep postseason run.
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