Veteran closer Craig Kimbrel has made headlines across baseball news outlets as he officially signed a major league deal with the Tampa Bay Rays. This move comes on the heels of his release from the New York Mets, who designated him for assignment earlier this month.
According to multiple sources including MLB Trade Rumors and ESPN, Kimbrel was released by the Mets after struggling in relief appearances during the 2026 season. The decision to designate him for assignment came as a surprise to many given his illustrious career history, which includes nine All-Star selections and numerous saves.
Following his release from the Mets, Kimbrel quickly became a sought-after free agent due to his track record of success in high-pressure situations. Reports indicate that several teams were interested in signing the veteran closer, but it was ultimately the Rays who secured his services with a major league contract.
The Tampa Bay Rays have been known for building their roster through strategic acquisitions and developing young talent. Adding Kimbrel to their bullpen is seen as an effort to bolster their late-game pitching depth and provide stability in what has been a competitive AL East division.
Kimbrel's return to the American League East marks his second stint with a team from that division, having previously played for the Boston Red Sox during their World Series-winning season. His experience and leadership will be valuable assets as the Rays look to improve upon last year’s performance.
While details of the contract terms have not been officially disclosed by either party, industry insiders suggest that Kimbrel's deal with the Rays is a one-year agreement with potential incentives tied to his performance on the mound. This arrangement allows both parties flexibility while also providing an opportunity for Kimbrel to prove himself in a new environment.
As news of the signing spread across sports media outlets including Bleacher Report, Yahoo Sports and FantasyPros, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Kimbrel will perform with his new team. With questions surrounding his effectiveness following recent struggles, there is anticipation about whether he can recapture some of his past glory in Tampa Bay.
In summary, Craig Kimbrel's signing with the Rays represents a significant development for both player and organization. While it remains to be seen how successful this partnership will prove to be, the addition of such an experienced reliever certainly adds another layer of intrigue to what promises to be an exciting baseball season.