Scouting Report: Craig Kimbrel

Summary

Craig Kimbrel, 37-year-old veteran relief pitcher for the New York Mets, has posted a 3.68 ERA through 8 appearances and 7.1 innings in early 2026 season. Despite an underlying 1.91 FIP suggesting good luck has been against him, Kimbrel shows stark performance splits: dominant in high-leverage situations (.125 opponent batting average) but vulnerable in medium-leverage spots (.500 OBA). He recorded a three-strikeout performance against Washington but also surrendered a go-ahead grand slam to Jake McCarthy of Colorado, inflating his ERA to 7.56. The Mets have increased his high-leverage usage due to bullpen instability with other relievers struggling. At 37 years old, questions persist about his remaining effectiveness and whether younger prospects should assume his role.