9-Time All-Star Craig Kimbrel Finds A New MLB Bullpen To Call Home

Just four days after being designated for assignment by the New York Mets, nine-time All-Star and four-time league saves leader Craig Kimbrel has found a new home, signing a major league contract with the Tampa Bay Rays.

Rays, RHP Craig Kimbrel reportedly agree to deal, per multiple reports including @adamdberry. pic.twitter.com/JWEnw4g4Xd
— MLB (@MLB) May 26, 2026

Kimbrel was DFA'd by the Mets after just 15 innings this season. The 38-year-old posted a 6.00 ERA and a 1.47 WHIP while batters hit .286 off him with an .885 OPS.

Kimbrel is fifth on baseball's all-time saves leaderboard, with 440. He was the NL saves leader for four straight years early in his career, averaging over 45 saves a season from 2011 through 2014. In 17 major league seasons, he's compiled a 2.65 ERA and 1,297 strikeouts in 865 appearances.

The veteran right-hander hasn't been a high-leverage arm at the back of a bullpen since 2024 when he recorded 23 saves for the Baltimore Orioles, despite a 5.33 ERA.

For Tampa, no one is complaining about the team's start over the first two months of the season, as they sit in first place in the tough AL East, with a 34-17 mark. But if there's one area they could stand to improve, it's in the bullpen, where they have a 4.40 ERA that ranks 21st in the majors.

Bryan Baker has picked up the slack in the 9th inning, with 14 saves, a 2.42 ERA and 0.98 WHIP. But getting to him has sometimes been a challenge.

Kimbrel will bring some veteran leadership to the Rays' bullpen.