What Huascar Brazobán did in the World Baseball Classic didn’t officially change how New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza viewed him—but it was hard not to be impressed. Pitching for the Dominican Republic, Brazobán dominated, retiring 12 of 13 batters across four innings and striking out seven, including three hitters from Team USA in the semifinal.
A day later, Mendoza indicated that Brazobán is on track to make the Mets’ Opening Day roster, provided he stays healthy, noting that he’s likely to be a key part of the bullpen.
His roster spot had only been uncertain because he still has minor league options, giving the team flexibility. However, his performance has made that decision easier. Between WBC action and spring training, Brazobán has given up just one hit and two walks over seven innings.
Mendoza added that Brazobán’s high-90s fastball with sink and strong changeup make him a reliable option, with consistency in the strike zone being the final piece.
Last season, Brazobán logged 63 innings with a 3.57 ERA, ranking among the Mets’ top relievers. His inclusion brings the number of confirmed bullpen arms to six, joining Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, Luis García, and Tobias Myers.
With the Mets planning a six-man rotation, only one bullpen spot remains open, with contenders like Craig Kimbrel, Bryan Hudson, Austin Warren, and Joey Gerber still in the mix. The team is expected to wait until close to Opening Day before finalizing that decision while also monitoring the waiver market for additional options.
Kimbrel remains a particularly interesting case, as he would earn $2.5 million if he makes the team. While his velocity and movement have been encouraging, his control issues this spring—four walks and two hit batters in four innings—have complicated his chances, leaving the Mets with a tough call.
Meanwhile, A.J. Minter and Adbert Alzolay won’t be ready for Opening Day. Minter is still recovering from surgery to repair a torn left lat, while Alzolay will continue his comeback from Tommy John surgery in Triple-A, though both could factor into the bullpen early in the season.
