The New York Mets are betting on their pitching staff’s ability to rejuvenate a former Atlanta Braves cast-off. With Jeremy Hefner at the helm of their pitching development, the Mets are confident they can turn Griffin Canning into a valuable contributor—and perhaps make the Braves regret their decision in the process.
On Wednesday night, Anthony DiComo reported that the Mets signed Canning, formerly of the Los Angeles Angels, to a one-year, $4.25-million deal. Canning’s journey to Queens was unconventional: the Angels had traded him to the Braves for Jorge Soler, only for Atlanta to non-tender the pitcher shortly afterward.
Though Canning is coming off a rough 2024 season, the Mets see potential in the 28-year-old. Last year, he posted a 6-13 record in 31 starts with a 5.19 ERA. However, his 1.398 WHIP shows flashes of control, and his career includes several solid seasons, with ERA+ figures above 100 in 2019, 2020, and 2023.
A Low-Risk, High-Reward Gamble for the Mets
For the Mets, this isn’t a blockbuster move, but it could prove valuable. Canning adds depth to a rotation that includes Tylor Megill and Paul Blackburn in its back end. He also provides injury insurance and an experiment worth exploring. The Angels, notorious for their struggles in developing pitchers, may not have tapped into his full potential. With Hefner’s guidance, Canning could refine his game, particularly by addressing his tendency to give up home runs.
The one-year deal represents minimal financial risk for the Mets. If Canning fails to impress, they can move on without significant repercussions. However, if they unlock his potential, the move could add a dependable arm to their roster while simultaneously underscoring Atlanta’s misstep.
Where Canning Fits
At worst, Canning gives the Mets an additional arm to tinker with. His raw stuff suggests he could even transition into a bullpen role if needed. While not a game-changing addition, he fits the Mets’ broader strategy of finding value in overlooked players.
For the Braves, who opted not to keep him, watching a divisional rival potentially succeed with Canning could sting. For the Mets, that’s just an added bonus.
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