Kimbrel won't make Mets' Opening Day roster
The New York Mets informed veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel that he won't make the team's Opening Day roster, manager Carlos Mendoza said Sunday, according to NJ.com's Max Goodman.
Mendoza added that Kimbrel is "leaning" toward staying with the organization despite falling short of the cut.
Kimbrel, 37, signed a minor-league deal with the Mets in January. He pitched in six spring training games, striking out five batters and allowing four hits and three runs.
Last season, Kimbrel posted a 2.25 ERA in a combined 14 appearances with the Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros. He struck out 17 batters and allowed 10 hits and seven walks.
Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman will also miss the Opening Day festivities, as he has a torn meniscus that requires surgery, Mendoza said. Tauchman left Saturday's game against the Astros with left knee soreness.
"Unfortunately, he's gonna be down for a while," Mendoza said, according to SNY TV.
Tauchman, 35, was in contention for a starting spot in right field, which opens the door for Carson Benge to make the roster instead. This spring, Tauchman hit .241 with one home run, six RBIs, and an .819 OPS.
The Mets open the season with a home game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday at Citi Field.