Nine-time All-Star relief pitcher Craig Kimbrel signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets on Jan. 24. Kimbrel and other Mets pitchers reported for spring training on Wednesday.
The club uploaded pictures of the pitchers on Instagram on the same day. All held chalkboards that disclosed information about them, including their favorite person or thing, and musical artist.
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The majority named their favorite singers in the artist section. However, Kimbrel didn’t. His answer was “AI,” and it drew criticism from fans on X.
“Just when you think this guy can’t possibly get any worse,” a fan commented.
“I think / hope he means Ai Carina Uemura,” a fan pondered.
Ai Carina Uemura is a Japanese-American singer. She is known as the ‘Queen of Hip-hop Soul’ in Japan.
“Pro athletes will never beat the knuckle dragging meathead allegations,” another fan commented.
“Yeah we’re seen enough DFA him already,” a fan hilariously suggested.
“Oh my god, that’s embarrassing,” a fan wrote.
“Worst board since DeGrom,” another fan commented.
Jacon DeGrom wrote “None” on the “childhood hero” section on his first photo day with the Texas Rangers. DeGrom joined the Rangers on a five-year, $185 million contract in December 2022.
Mets pundit gives his Craig Kimbrel prediction
New York Mets pundit Ryan Finkelstein believes Craig Kimbrel is more than a non-roster invitee in spring training. He thinks Kimbrel has a realistic chance to be part of the Mets’ bullpen in the upcoming season.
Finkelstein is the host of the “Locked on Mets” podcast. He shared his thoughts about Kimbrel on Thursday’s episode of the podcast.
“So, I think when it comes to my bullpen prediction, it’s hard for me to not predict Craig Kimbell making this team, just because he has the longest track record,” Finkelstein said [Timestamp: 23:54].
“I think he is going to be given every opportunity to grab a spot. I think he brings a lot to the team with his experience, for a bullpen that might be a little bit inexperienced beyond him and the few high-leverage guys they have,” he added.
Finkelstein noted that the eventual return of the injured AJ Minter will be a huge lift. He also said Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, and Luis Garcia are the four locks in the bullpen.
However, there isn’t any veteran presence. Therefore, Finkelstein predicted that Kimbrel’s track record gives him a clear edge over youngsters or lesser-proven options. He is confident Kimbrel can become a steadying presence.
Edited by Safeer M S