The New York Mets have quietly strengthened their pitching reserves by inking a minor league deal with right-handed reliever Daniel Duarte. This low-risk move adds an experienced arm recovering from injury to the organization’s mix as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The agreement surfaced initially on MLB.com’s transactions listings and gained wider attention through reports from MLB Trade Rumors. It represents a typical depth acquisition for the Mets, who frequently shuttle pitchers between the majors and Triple-A.
At 29 years old, Duarte brings some big-league experience despite a limited resume. He has logged 38.1 innings at the major league level, primarily during his time with the Cincinnati Reds in 2023, where he posted a 3.99 ERA while demonstrating a tendency to induce ground balls.
Duarte sat out the entire 2025 campaign while rehabilitating from a UCL revision surgery performed in May 2024 during his stint with the Minnesota Twins. The procedure sidelined him completely that year, marking a significant setback in his career progression.
Known for generating grounders, Duarte maintained a 47.3% ground-ball rate in the majors, though he surrendered seven home runs in his relatively brief appearances. His control has occasionally been an issue, contributing to the ups and downs in his performance.
To rebuild confidence and velocity, Duarte returned to action in the Mexican Pacific Winter League with the Cañeros de los Mochis. There, he delivered an impressive stretch, tossing 19.2 scoreless innings across multiple outings.
This dominant winter showing likely caught the eye of Mets decision-makers, signaling that his arm has responded well post-surgery. It provided crucial evidence that his stuff remains effective after the lengthy layoff.
The Mets are expected to assign Duarte to Triple-A Syracuse to start the 2026 season, allowing him to continue building innings and sharpness. However, New York’s bullpen often requires reinforcements throughout the year due to injuries and workload management.
Given that pattern, Duarte could find himself in Queens at some point next season if he performs well in the minors and opportunities arise. The club values versatile relief options capable of handling high-leverage situations when needed.
Overall, this signing carries minimal financial risk while offering upside potential. If Duarte’s velocity and command return to pre-injury levels, he could emerge as a reliable contributor for a Mets team aiming to contend.
Heading into spring training, Duarte will have a platform to compete and demonstrate his recovery. It’s a fresh start for the Mexican-born pitcher, who now gets a chance to re-establish himself in a new organization eager for cost-effective talent.
