New York Mets Kick Off Offseason by Signing Veteran Reliever Chris Devenski, According to Reports
The New York Mets have reached an agreement to sign veteran relief pitcher Chris Devenski to a minor league contract, as reported by MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo on Monday afternoon.
The contract includes an invitation to big league Spring Training in February.
Devenski began the 2024 season with the Tampa Bay Rays but was designated for assignment in June. He then joined the Seattle Mariners but did not return to the majors.
In 19 MLB appearances this season, he posted a 2-1 record with a 6.75 ERA and a 1.575 WHIP, averaging 8.1 strikeouts per nine innings and finishing with a -0.8 WAR. In Triple-A Tacoma, he had a better showing, going 0-1 with a 2.35 ERA, 1.043 WHIP, and 12.1 strikeouts per nine innings over 23 appearances.
The 33-year-old marks the Mets’ first addition since their loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS on October 20.
Devenski, who recently became a free agent, began his career with the Houston Astros in 2016, finishing fourth in AL Rookie of the Year voting. He earned All-Star honors and won a World Series in 2017, ending his second season with a career ERA of 2.38, 0.926 WHIP, 9.7 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 4.6 WAR.
However, his performance declined after leaving the Astros at the end of 2020, leading to stints with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Angels before joining Tampa Bay.
Over his nine-year MLB career, Devenski has a record of 27-22, with a 3.98 ERA, 1.135 WHIP, 9.3 strikeouts per nine innings, and a 2.9 WAR.
With Ryne Stanek likely heading to free agency and Phil Maton’s team option probably being declined, the Mets may be looking for veteran relievers this offseason. If they don’t acquire any big names for the bullpen or choose to allocate their resources elsewhere, Devenski could have a shot at making New York’s Opening Day roster in March 2025.
