New York Mets Sign 5-Year Veteran Pitcher
Mets Sign Zach Pop to Bolster Bullpen Depth
After being designated for assignment by the Seattle Mariners, Pop quickly landed in Queens, signing a major league contract on Thursday.
The move comes just as the Mets placed Dedniel Núñez on the injured list with a possible elbow injury requiring Tommy John surgery, prompting a search for immediate reinforcements.
Free-agent reliever Zach Pop and the New York Mets are in agreement on a major-league contract, source said. Pop was recently designated for assignment by the Mariners.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) July 3, 2025
Mets Must Restructure Roster to Add Pop
While Pop struggled during his brief stint with Seattle, giving up eight earned runs over 5.1 innings, he showed better form in Triple-A, posting a 3.52 ERA across nine appearances. The Mets hope they’re getting the version of Pop who impressed with the Toronto Blue Jays in earlier seasons.
To make room for Pop on the 40-man roster, the club will likely shift Núñez to the 60-day IL, allowing the Canadian-born reliever to step right into a low-leverage role in New York.
Per @ByRobertMurray, the Mets are signing RHP Zach Pop to a major-league contract.
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) July 3, 2025
Pop made four appearances with the Mariners earlier this season. pic.twitter.com/unc4MJSpQp
A Low-Risk, High-Upside Move
With their bullpen thinned by injuries and inconsistencies, the Mets are banking on Pop's untapped potential. At just 28, he still offers a power sinker and ground-ball-heavy profile that could thrive in the right setting.
Given the current state of the Mets' pitching staff, Pop's signing is a low-risk gamble that might pay off if he regains his form. For now, he’ll likely be eased in, but a string of solid outings could cement his spot on a team desperate for relief help.
Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
