Craig Kimbrel reportedly joining Rays' bullpen after being DFA'd by the Mets

Craig Kimbrel is back in the majors after reportedly agreeing to a deal to join the Tampa Bay Rays, according to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal.

The soon-to-be 38-year-old reliever started the season with the New York Mets, but was designated for assignment last week. Kimbrel made 14 appearances for New York, recording 15 strikeouts in 15 innings pitched, while posting a 6.00 ERA and 1.47 WHIP. Opponents were also batting a career-high .286 against him.

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After clearing waivers and declining a minor league assignment, Kimbrel became a free agent.

Kimbrel could join the Rays in Baltimore Tuesday night as they continue their three-game series against the Orioles before returning home this weekend to begin a six-game homestand.

Once one of MLB’s most formidable closers, Kimbrel has not recorded a save since the 2024 season with the Orioles. The 17-year veteran ranks fifth in MLB history with 440 saves. However, the Mets did not sign him to be their closer, having signed Devin Williams for that role.