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Mets Add Reliability with Menge Signing

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 9:42 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: New York, Florida, UNITED STATES

Beyond the ERA: What Does Menge Bring to the Mets?

The Mets' pitching staff, despite improvements made over the past few seasons, has often been plagued by injuries. Key starters have hit the injured list at critical moments, forcing the team to rely on less-tested arms. Menge offers a level of predictability and a proven track record of availability. His 67 appearances last year demonstrate an ability to consistently take the mound, a valuable asset for any bullpen.

Furthermore, the Mets' roster includes a number of promising young pitchers, many of whom are still developing their command and consistency. Menge's presence provides a veteran voice in the clubhouse and a potential mentor for these younger players. He can share his knowledge of navigating the long season, handling pressure situations, and refining pitching mechanics. This leadership role is often underestimated but can be crucial for team chemistry and overall performance. Think of players like Adam Wainwright or Justin Verlander, whose value extended far beyond their on-field statistics in their later careers.

The State of the Mets Bullpen

The Mets' bullpen currently appears solid, with Edwin Diaz expected to resume his closer role after returning from injury. However, the bridge to Diaz, and the arms tasked with handling high-leverage situations in the 6th and 7th innings, remain areas where the Mets are looking to improve. Menge will likely be competing with pitchers like Drew Smith and Jake Diekman for those crucial middle relief roles.

Adding a veteran like Menge also allows the Mets flexibility. If a starter struggles or suffers an injury, Menge could be a viable option to make spot starts, giving the team time to assess other options or allow a struggling starter to regroup. This is particularly important in today's game, where teams increasingly rely on a deep pool of pitching options.

Looking Ahead: Menge's Path to Contributing

While a starting position is unlikely, Menge's best chance of making the Opening Day roster lies in showcasing his consistency during Spring Training and demonstrating his ability to pitch effectively in various situations. He'll need to impress Mendoza and the coaching staff with his command, control, and ability to get key outs.

Ultimately, the Mets aren't expecting Menge to be a savior. They see him as a valuable piece of the puzzle, a veteran arm who can provide depth, leadership, and a reliable presence in the bullpen. He is, in essence, an insurance policy - a player who can be counted on when the unexpected happens. For a team with World Series ambitions, that kind of reliability is worth its weight in gold.