Mets Sign Genesis Cabrera to Minor League Deal with Spring Training Invitation

The New York Mets announced on Wednesday the signing of left-handed reliever Genesis Cabrera to a minor league contract, with an invitation to major league spring training.

Career Overview
Cabrera, 28, has spent his MLB career with the St. Louis Cardinals and Toronto Blue Jays. In 2024, he posted a 3.59 ERA over 62 2/3 innings with the Blue Jays, despite a below-average strikeout rate of 18.5% and a high walk rate of 10.7%. Command has been a consistent challenge for Cabrera, who has never posted a walk rate below 10% in any season.

Performance and Potential
Despite his control issues, Cabrera has remained an effective pitcher, boasting a career ERA of 3.89 across 275 2/3 innings in the majors. He has frequently pitched in high-leverage situations, accumulating 67 holds and five saves. In 2024, Cabrera's fastball velocity dipped to a career-low average of 95.9 mph, but his sinker slightly improved to an average of 96 mph. However, his strikeout rate last year was the second-lowest of his career, signaling some potential red flags.

Opportunity with the Mets
​The Mets see potential in Cabrera's track record and velocity, despite his inconsistent command and recent performance issues. By bringing him to camp as a non-roster invitee, they have no risk and stand to gain a valuable bullpen piece if he performs well. Currently, Danny Young is the only left-handed reliever on the Mets' 40-man roster, so adding Cabrera provides much-needed depth and competition as the offseason progresses.