Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

New York Mets Add Depth by Signing Veteran Reliever

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zachary Cariola | Last updated Apr 4, 2026 11:51 AM ET

The New York Mets are adding depth to the roster, with veteran reliever Luke Jackson joining the organization. According to The Athletics' Will Sammon, Jackson is signing a minor league contract.

The Mets have been average to start the season, and finally hit the .500 mark with their 10-3 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Friday. Despite the average start, the Mets' bullpen has proven itself to be one of the stronger parts of the roster (fifth-best in Major League Baseball, 1.93 ERA).

Luke Jackson will add depth to an injury-riddled Mets bullpen

Jun 15, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Texas Rangers catcher Kyle Higashioka (11) celebrates with Texas Rangers relief pitcher Luke Jackson (77) after the game against the Chicago White Sox at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Jackson will add valuable depth, as he’s coming off a decent 2025. Pitching for the Texas Rangers, Detroit Tigers, and Seattle Mariners, Jackson appeared in 52 games (51.0 innings), going 2-5 with a 4.06 ERA, tallied nine saves, and struck out 38.

The Mets' bullpen had to deal with some injuries heading into the season. Right-hander Reed Garrett will miss all year after having Tommy John surgery, while left-hander A.J. Minter (left lat surgery) is a month behind other arms on the staff.

Minter won’t be available until early May. The plan for Minter is to pitch in rehab games at Port St. Lucie before moving on. Right-handed Tylor Megill will also miss the entire season, as he had Tommy John surgery.

Right-hander Justin Hagenman, like Minter, is also slowly working his way back. Hagenman suffered a fractured rib while pitching in a game against the Washington Nationals (March 5).

Hagenman won’t be able to start building himself up until he’s recovered (four to eight weeks) and maybe return in June.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: