Wed Jan 29 16:40:00 UTC 2025: **Mets Eyeing Bullpen Boost: Could Ryne Stanek Return?**

NEW YORK (Metsmerized Online) – The New York Mets, fresh off a busy offseason that included the acquisition of superstar Juan Soto and pitching reinforcements Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes, are reportedly considering adding another arm to their bullpen before pitchers and catchers report next month. The team is eyeing a reunion with right-handed reliever Ryne Stanek, whose strong postseason performance last year overshadowed a less-than-stellar regular season.

Stanek, acquired mid-season from Seattle, posted a 6.06 ERA in 16 1/3 innings during the regular season. However, he shined in the playoffs, delivering crucial innings against the Brewers, Phillies, and Dodgers, including a key 2 ⅓ inning outing in Game 5 of the NLCS. His postseason success highlights his potential, recalling his strong track record with the Houston Astros (2021-2023), where he compiled a 2.90 ERA and 196 strikeouts over 173 ⅔ innings.

The Mets’ bullpen remains a concern heading into 2025. While they’ve signed A.J. Minter, the team is relying heavily on Reed Garrett and José Buttó to set up closer Edwin Díaz, despite both having experienced inconsistencies last season. The status of Dedniel Núñez, recovering from a flexor strain, also adds uncertainty.

Stanek, a proven strikeout artist, could fill a significant gap in the Mets’ relief corps. Whether the team will make a move to bring him back remains to be seen, but the possibility suggests the Mets are aware of their bullpen’s need for strengthening before the start of the new season.

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