The New York Mets have made a small but important addition to their roster by agreeing to a one-year, $4.25 million contract with right-hander Griffin Canning pending a physical. Canning, who was non-tendered by the Atlanta Braves, went 6-13 with a 5.19 ERA in 32 games for the Los Angeles Angels in 2024. He has a career record of 25-34 with a 4.78 ERA in five seasons, all with the Angels. The 28-year-old was drafted by the Angels in the second round out of UCLA in 2017.
Canning was traded to the Braves in October in exchange for Jorge Soler but was immediately cut by Atlanta, making him a free agent. He joins a Mets team that saw left-handers Sean Manaea and Jose Quintana reach free agency after reaching the National League Championship Series in 2024. The Mets made headlines with outfielder Juan Soto’s record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract but knew they needed to continue improving their roster, starting with their starting rotation.
The Mets’ rotation includes players like Kodai Senga, David Peterson, Paul Blackburn, Frankie Montas, and Clay Holmes. Canning provides necessary depth in case of injuries and becomes the youngest pitcher in the group. Despite inconsistency in his tenure with the Angels, Canning showed promise with a career-best 3.99 ERA in the shortened 2020 season and has pitched significant innings in the last two seasons, suggesting he can handle a workload in pitcher-friendly Citi Field.
Canning’s addition to the Mets’ roster fills a key role as they look to build a competitive team for the upcoming season. His experience and potential for growth make him a valuable asset to the team’s pitching staff. The Mets continue to make moves to strengthen their roster and compete in the highly competitive National League. Canning’s signing is just one of many steps the Mets are taking to position themselves as contenders in the 2025 season.
As the Mets finalize their roster for the upcoming season, Canning’s addition adds depth and stability to the pitching staff. His ability to pitch significant innings and provide quality starts will be crucial for the team’s success. The Mets are looking to build on their recent success and continue to make moves that improve their chances in the competitive National League. Canning’s signing is a step in the right direction for the Mets as they prepare for the upcoming season.
