Mets Assign Jose Buttó as Multi-Inning Reliever

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that José Buttó will remain in a multi-inning relief role for the upcoming season, where he thrived last year with a 2.00 ERA in 23 appearances. Despite starting seven games last season with a 3.08 ERA, Buttó's high walk rate led the team to shift him to a bullpen position, where he excelled with a 29.7% strikeout rate. Mendoza emphasized the importance of having multi-inning relievers available, especially as the team prepares for a six-man rotation that includes Tylor Megill, who will be stretched out as a starter. Buttó's performance has positioned him as a key setup man in a bullpen that features notable names like Edwin Diaz and A.J. Minter. While his fastball velocity is below average, it remains effective due to his deceptive pitching style, allowing him to limit hits despite a notable walk rate. Overall, Buttó's transition to relief is seen as a strategic move to bolster the Mets' bullpen depth and effectiveness.