The New York Mets are shaking things up! In a surprising move, they've claimed right-handed pitcher Cooper Criswell from the Boston Red Sox. But wait, there's a twist: Boston had just signed Criswell to a guaranteed deal, hoping to keep him as non-roster depth.
ESPN's Jorge Castillo reports that the Mets have made a bold move, claiming Criswell off waivers. This comes just a day after the Red Sox designated him for assignment to make room for Johan Oviedo and Tyler Samaniego, both recently acquired. The Mets, with their two 40-man roster spots available, didn't need to make any corresponding moves.
Now, here's where it gets interesting: Boston had signed Criswell to an $800K guaranteed contract for the upcoming season, even though he isn't eligible for arbitration yet. This was a strategic move, as they hoped his lack of minor league options and higher-than-usual salary would allow them to keep him as a non-roster player. But the Mets had other plans.
And this is the part most teams are trying these days: claiming players with major league experience but no minor league options, aiming to strengthen their upper minor league teams. The Mets might even try this with Criswell later in the offseason if their 40-man roster gets crowded.
Criswell, 29, had a brief stint with the Red Sox in 2025, pitching 17 2/3 innings with a 3.57 ERA but a low 11.3% strikeout rate. Over five seasons in the majors with the Angels, Rays, and Red Sox, he's maintained a 4.48 ERA, a 16.7% strikeout rate, and a 7.1% walk rate. He also started in Triple-A Worcester last season, pitching 65 2/3 innings with a 3.70 ERA.
If Criswell remains on the Mets' 40-man roster, he might fill a swingman role. However, the Mets have several pitchers ahead of him, including Nolan McLean, David Peterson, Clay Holmes, Kodai Senga, Sean Manaea, Jonah Tong, Brandon Sproat, and Christian Scott. The Mets may also look to free agency or trades to bolster their rotation, and some of their current pitchers could be trade candidates. Kodai Senga, for instance, has been mentioned in recent trade rumors.
What do you think about the Mets' strategy? Is claiming players like Criswell a smart move, or are they taking a risk? Share your thoughts in the comments!
