Brazobán Secures Mets Bullpen Spot, Final Spot Up for Grabs

0:00For the New York Mets, it's March 16th, and here's what's going on. Kwasgar Brazoban has earned a spot in the New York Mets opening day bullpen. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the right-handed reliever will make the team as long as he stays healthy. Brazoban impressed everyone with his strong pitching in the World Baseball Classic and spring training games. In the tournament, he pitched four innings for the Dominican Republic, retiring 12 of 13 batters faced and striking out seven, including three from team USA in the semi-final. Overall between that and Greyfruit League play, he allowed just one hit and two walks in seven innings. His fastball hits the high 90s with sync, and he has a solid change up. Mendoza was not surprised by Brazoban's form, noting his good build-up and readiness for multi-inning outings. Last season, Brazoban ranked second among Mets relievers with 63 innings pitched and a 3.57 earn run average. His stuff has proven reliable when he feels the strike zone consistently.

1:03With Brazoban locked in, the Mets now have six confirmed relievers, Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Brooks Rally, Luis Garcia, and Tobias Myers. The team plans a six-man rotation, leaving just one bullpen spot open amid a six-man rotation plan. That final spot is up for grabs among candidates like Craig Kimberl, Brian Hudson, Austin Warren, and Joey Gerber. Decisions will come close to opening day at noon, with the Mets monitoring the waiver wire for options. Kimberl's $2.5 million salary adds intrigue, especially after some control issues this spring, despite good velocity on his pitches. A message from our sponsor supports today's story. A pillow that plays your podcast, music, or white noise privately, no earbuds required. S-O-L-I, solely pillow.com.