Ryan Lambert is making quite the splash at the New York Mets' spring training, and it's not just because he's hurling fastballs over 100 mph. The 23-year-old right-hander is turning heads with his unique journey and unconventional approach to the game. Lambert's story is one of sheer determination and a willingness to embrace the unusual-like drinking 30 raw eggs a day for a month to gain an edge.
Chugging Eggs and Eating Chicken Hearts
Two years back, after being cut from his college team, Lambert was on a mission to build muscle and recover faster. Inspired by an online video, he decided to dive into the world of raw eggs, consuming 30 of them daily for a month.
Lambert embraced the challenge, saying, “I’m not a chicken. I like a little adversity and challenge.
It kind of gets me going.” That mindset is what fuels his relentless pursuit of improvement.
But Lambert's nutritional quirks don't stop at eggs. His diet remains strict and includes some eyebrow-raising choices.
He once took fellow prospect Jonah Tong to a Brazilian steakhouse and ordered chicken hearts. He’s also known to keep a watchful eye on his teammates’ eating habits, even calling out outfielder Nick Morabito for extra creamer in his coffee.
Lambert's commitment extends to his sleep routine, waking up at 8 a.m. to soak in the morning sun and set his circadian rhythm.
From Cut to Drafted
Lambert's journey hasn't been without its hurdles. During his sophomore year at Missouri State, he struggled with control, walking seven batters while recording just seven outs.
After being cut, he decided to take a chance, filming a bullpen session where he hit 99 mph on the radar gun. The video went viral, catching the attention of the University of Oklahoma, and eventually leading to the Mets drafting him in the eighth round in 2024.
It’s a testament to betting on oneself and seizing opportunities.
The Numbers Behind Ryan Lambert’s Heat
Lambert's stats from the 2025 season are nothing short of remarkable. Pitching for Double-A Binghamton, he posted a 1.62 ERA with 81 strikeouts in just 50 innings-translating to an impressive 14.6 strikeouts per nine innings.
This strikeout rate ranked fifth among 1,383 minor league pitchers who threw at least 50 innings last year. Lambert isn’t just about velocity; he’s missing bats at an elite level.
In Mets camp, Lambert stands out as the hardest-throwing pitcher, topping out at 100.9 mph last season with aspirations to hit 101 mph or more in 2026. His fastball's induced vertical break, averaging around 21 inches, makes it appear to rise as it reaches the plate, a nightmare for hitters trying to make contact.
Lambert might be ranked as the Mets' 20th-best prospect, but his potential as a high-leverage reliever suggests he could climb much higher. Keep an eye on this young pitcher-his journey is as compelling as his game.