The veteran reliever returns after key postseason contributions, joining AJ Minter to strengthen the bullpen.
The 33-year-old right-hander first joined the Mets by way of trade from the Seattle Mariners during the last season’s trade deadline. Although Stanek had faced challenges earlier, posting a 6.06 ERA over 17 appearances, he proved to be a key contributor during the postseason.
During the Mets’ playoff run, Stanek began to shine, culminating his efforts with impressive performances culminating in three runs allowed over eight innings pitched, with eight strikeouts, earning him valuable postseason experience.
MLB.com highlighted how Stanek significantly improved following initial struggles early on, becoming “a trusted high-leverage reliever late in the postseason.” His contributions helped the Mets secure three victories during the playoffs, where he even logged the final out on notable occasions like Game 1 of the Wild Card Series and Games 1 and 3 of the NLDS.
Stanek’s transition back to the Mets for another year reflects the team’s commitment to reinforcing their bullpen as they push for success. With the deal valued at approximately $4.5 million, he also has the potential to earn additional incentives based on performance.
Before joining the Mets, Stanek also had shown resilience with the Mariners, wrapping up the regular season with 63 appearances and a cumulative ERA of 4.88. Notably, he excelled during fall 2022 as part of the Houston Astros, earning four scoreless appearances and contributing directly to their World Series championship.
This latest contract marks the third recent addition to the Mets’ bullpen; they also inked former Braves lefty A.J. Minter to a two-year, $22 million contract earlier this month, creating what might be one of the more formidable relief cores heading forward.
The Mets have realized the necessity of deepening their pitching strategies. While closer Edwin Diaz remains the team’s anchor, with his highly lucrative contract from prior seasons, Stanek and Minter will likely play key roles preceding Diaz during high-leverage situations.
Stanek’s track record speaks volumes—since making his first appearance back in 2017, he has maintained consistent success as reflected by his career 3.65 ERA over 401 appearances. He has been particularly noted for his hard-throwing style, averaging touching 97.8 mph on his four-seamer, which makes him one of the more competitive options among relief pitchers.
This contract solidifies the Mets’ strategy as they navigate roster changes—Stanek brings invaluable experience coupled with the potential for stretch-long relief following the game to secure wins effectively. His consistent strikeout capabilities and experience working under pressure have made him desirable.
The pressure will now mount for Stanek and others as they prepare for the upcoming season, with the media spotlight expected to follow the New York franchise following several notable dealings this offseason. The team remains focused on shoring up consistency within the pitching staff, demonstrating their intent to pursue postseason glory once again.
With every addition, the Mets are making it clear they are serious about competing at the highest levels of Major League Baseball, and Stanek’s re-signing aligns perfectly with this vision.
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