After missing the remainder of the 2024 season due to injury, former Texas A&M pitcher A.J. Minter is preparing for his first year with the New York Mets. Earlier this month, the former Aggie took a major step in his recovery by throwing live batting practice for the first time since last season.
Minter joined the Mets in January on a two-year, $22 million deal following an eight-year stint with the Atlanta Braves. His 2024 season was derailed by a left hip impingement, which he battled for much of the year before ultimately undergoing surgery in August. Before the injury cut his season short, he posted a 2.62 ERA over 34.1 innings.
Although Minter’s rehabilitation is progressing ahead of schedule, the Mets are being cautious with his return, and it remains uncertain whether he will be ready for Opening Day. “If I have to miss a few days or even a couple of weeks, my priority is to contribute late in the season,” Minter stated.
On Friday, Minter threw his second live batting practice session of the spring, facing outfielder Brandon Nimmo, who is also recovering from injury. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the session, signaling that Minter’s recovery is moving in the right direction.
After a successful tenure with the Braves, Minter brings championship experience to a Mets team aiming for a deep postseason run in 2025. A crucial part of Atlanta’s bullpen, he played a key role in the team’s 2021 World Series triumph. Over eight seasons with the Braves, he recorded a 3.28 ERA in 384 appearances.
Before signing Minter, the Mets made headlines with a blockbuster move, securing outfielder Juan Soto on a 15-year contract. In addition to his postseason pedigree, Minter has experience performing on big stages, having helped lead Texas A&M to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. He broke out as a dominant reliever in 2014, posting a 1.85 ERA across 26 games. His junior season in 2015 was cut short by Tommy John surgery, but he was still selected in the second round of the MLB Draft by the Braves.
With Minter in the mix, the Mets have bolstered their bullpen in hopes of competing for a World Series title in 2025. While his status for the start of the season is uncertain, the left-hander is expected to be a valuable asset in high-leverage situations later in the year.
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