Mets Make Moves as Offseason Heats Up
The Mets are starting to reshape their roster, and one of their first big splashes comes in the form of right-hander Luke Weaver. The former Yankee is reportedly heading to Queens on a two-year, $22 million deal-a move that signals the Mets are serious about reinforcing the back end of their bullpen.
Weaver brings experience and versatility, and while he’s bounced around in recent seasons, he showed enough flashes to earn another multi-year commitment. Paired with Devin Williams, who’s already locked in as a late-inning weapon, Weaver gives the Mets another reliable arm to help close out games. For a team that struggled to hold leads last season, that’s no small upgrade.
The front office also made a quiet but interesting move behind the plate, claiming catcher Drew Romo off waivers. Romo’s still young and developing, but he’s known for his defense and game-calling-two traits that can’t be overstated, especially with a revamped bullpen on the way. To make room, the Mets designated lefty Brandon Waddell for assignment.
On the international stage, two Mets will be representing Team USA in the upcoming World Baseball Classic: Nolan McLean and Clay Holmes. It’s a big opportunity for both players to showcase their skills in a high-pressure environment, and it gives Mets fans a little something extra to watch this spring.
While 2025 didn’t go the way the big-league club hoped, the story in the minors was a different one entirely. The Mets’ farm system made real noise this year, with several prospects taking big steps forward. That kind of organizational depth is exactly what this team needs as it looks to build a more sustainable contender.
NL East Notes
Elsewhere in the division, the Braves are bringing former catcher Martín Maldonado into the front office as a special assistant. Maldonado was always known for his leadership and game management behind the plate, so it’s no surprise Atlanta wants to keep that baseball mind in the building.
The Phillies are adding to their bullpen as well, reportedly signing former Cubs righty Brad Keller to a two-year deal. Keller has experience both as a starter and reliever, and could slot into a multi-inning role or be used as a matchup arm depending on how the rest of the bullpen shakes out.
In Washington, the Nationals are making a bold front office move of their own. They’re reportedly hiring 31-year-old Ani Kilambi as their next general manager. It’s a forward-thinking hire for a franchise that’s clearly trying to inject new energy and ideas into its rebuild.
Around the League
Big change is coming in Minnesota, where Tom Pohlad is set to take over as the Twins’ controlling owner, replacing his younger brother Joe. Ownership transitions don’t always lead to immediate on-field changes, but it’s a development worth watching as the Twins look to stay competitive in the AL Central.
The Guardians swung a deal with the Blue Jays to acquire lefty Justin Bruihl, adding another arm to their bullpen mix. In a corresponding move, they designated slugger Jhonkensy Noel for assignment just days before Christmas-a tough break for a player with raw power, but a reflection of how tight roster spots can get this time of year.
And one of the more intriguing notes on the free agent front: Bo Bichette might be open to switching positions. The market for shortstops hasn’t shaped up the way many expected, and if Bichette is willing to move off the position, it could open up some new possibilities for both him and teams looking to add a big bat without shuffling their infield core.
As the offseason rolls on, we’re starting to see the chessboard take shape. The Mets are making their moves, the division is staying active, and teams across the league are getting creative. Buckle up-there’s more to come.