The Mets’ post-holiday wave of free-agent signings has finally reached the bullpen.
In need of a left-handed relief presence, the team on Friday reached agreement with A.J. Minter on a two-year contract worth $22 million, an industry source confirmed.
The deal includes an opt-out after the first season.
Minter, 31, pitched to a 2.62 ERA in 39 appearances with the Braves, for whom he has spent his entire eight-year major league career.
Minter will provide an intriguing crossover option as somebody who can handle lefties and righties.
Last season he was better against right-handed batters, holding them to a .603 OPS. Lefties had a .684 OPS against him.
The addition occurred a day after the Mets, moving forward with their offseason plan with the belief Pete Alonso will sign elsewhere, reunited with Jesse Winker on a one-year contract worth $7.5 million.
Tanner Scott, who is regarded as the top reliever on the free-agent market, met with club officials earlier this month.
According to a source, Minter’s addition will likely preclude the Mets from further pursuing Scott.
The Mets had a need for lefty relief last season.
Brooks Raley and Jake Diekman began the season as the team’s primary options, but Raley had reconstructive elbow surgery and Diekman’s struggles led to his July release.
Danny Young had a solid stretch in the role before fading later in the season.
Minter joins a bullpen that includes Edwin Diaz, Reed Garrett, Dedniel Nunez and perhaps Jose Butto – who is also under consideration as a starter.
Other names include Sean Reid-Foley, Huascar Brazoban and Max Kranick.
SNY first reported the agreement between Minter and the Mets.
