The New York Mets have made a move to bolster their bullpen by signing former Baltimore Orioles All-Star reliever Jorge Lopez to a one-year deal. The Mets, aiming to regain relevance in the National League after finishing fourth in the NL East, continue to explore various avenues to strengthen their roster.
Jeff Passan of ESPN reported that the Mets and Lopez reached an agreement on a one-year, $2 million contract. Lopez, a right-handed reliever, had an impressive 2022 season, pitching for the Orioles and later being traded to the Minnesota Twins. During that year, he showcased dominance with a 2.53 ERA over 67 games and recorded 23 saves.
However, Passan notes that Lopez faced challenges in 2023. Starting the season with the Twins, he was then traded to the Miami Marlins and eventually returned to the Orioles. Despite a less successful 2023 campaign, with a 5.13 ERA, the Mets are banking on his potential to rediscover his previous form.
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With the Mets anticipating the return of All-Star closer Edwin Diaz from injury in 2024, Lopez won’t be under pressure to handle ninth-inning duties. If he can regain his peak performance, there is a possibility that Lopez could contribute in high-leverage situations during other innings.
In addition to the signing of Lopez, the Mets have made other minor moves, and they are reportedly in the mix for top free-agent starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The outcome of Yamamoto’s decision will be eagerly awaited by the Mets and the entire baseball community as they continue to shape their roster for the upcoming season.
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