Despite starting the season with a .500 record, the New York Mets’ bullpen has been a major asset. As of Thursday, their relievers have posted a collective 1.64 ERA, the second-best in MLB. This is an encouraging improvement after last season, when the bullpen had inconsistent performances before finishing with a 3.93 ERA, ranking around the league average. With All-Star closer Edwin Diaz leading the charge, the Mets are counting on their bullpen to secure victories in high-pressure situations. On Thursday, they bolstered their relief corps by adding another pitcher coming off a career-best season.
According to MLB insider Robert Murray via his X account, the Mets have signed right-handed pitcher Jose Marte to a minor-league contract. “The Mets are signing pitcher Jose Marte to a two-year minor-league contract, source says,” Murray reported. Marte, who recorded a 2.33 ERA in 14 appearances for the Angels last season, is currently recovering from shoulder surgery he underwent in September.
Marte has spent all four of his MLB seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, enjoying a breakout year in 2024. He set career highs in innings pitched, appearances, and bWAR while also posting his best single-season ERA, WHIP, and HR/9. His pitching repertoire includes a slider, sinker, four-seam fastball, and changeup, with his sinker and fastball both averaging 96 MPH. However, control has been a challenge for Marte, as he holds a career 7.8 BB/9 rate. If he can improve his command, he has the potential to become a key piece in the Mets’ bullpen this season.
