New York Mets Bring Back Key Bullpen Piece

 

The New York Mets are rounding their bullpen into shape for the 2023 season, today bringing back a key piece, re-signing free agent Adam Ottavino to a two-year deal.

Right-handed reliever Adam Ottavino and the New York Mets are in agreement on a two-year, $14.5 million contract, sources tell ESPN. Deal includes an opt-out after the first season and a potential $1 million in performance bonuses each season.

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 20, 2022

The right-hander is returning on a 2-year, $14.5M contract, with an opt-out after the first season. Ottavino also can earn up to $1M extra in incentives each season. 

The 37-year-old had a superb season for the Mets in 2022, posting a 2.06 ERA with a 0.97 WHIP and a 79:16 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 65.2 innings. He'll return to his set-up role for closer Edwin Diaz. David Robertson is another late-game arm the Mets recently signed that will be added to that mix.

Over his 12-year career, Ottavino has averaged 10.5 K/9, remaining pretty consistent on that from year-to-year. But in 2022, he kept his walks to a career-low 2.2 per nine innings. His lifetime ERA is 3.44 and he's registered 33 saves. 

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