Mets Lose Free Agent Pitcher to AL Team

Drew Smith, a former Mets reliever, drew interest from over 15 teams after being released by the Nationals.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 5:48pm

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The New York Mets were interested in re-signing right-handed pitcher Drew Smith, who played for the team from 2018 to 2024, after he was released by the Washington Nationals. However, Smith has reportedly drawn interest from over 15 teams across the league, including the Mets, as they look to bolster their bullpen ahead of the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The Mets are in need of pitching depth, especially in the bullpen, as they look to contend in the NL East. Losing out on a familiar face like Drew Smith, who had success in New York, is a setback as they try to build a championship-caliber roster.

The details

Drew Smith, a right-handed reliever, was released by the Washington Nationals last week. Despite his recent struggles, the 30-year-old has drawn interest from over 15 teams around the league, including the Mets, who had him on their roster from 2018 to 2024. The Mets have an open bullpen spot and were hoping to bring Smith back, but he appears poised to sign with another team, potentially an American League club.

  • Drew Smith was released by the Washington Nationals last week.

The players

Drew Smith

A 30-year-old right-handed pitcher who played for the New York Mets from 2018 to 2024 and was recently released by the Washington Nationals.

New York Mets

A Major League Baseball team based in New York City that competes in the National League East division.

Washington Nationals

A Major League Baseball team based in Washington, D.C. that competes in the National League East division.

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What they’re saying

“Drew Smith, whom the Nationals released last week, has drawn interest from 15+ teams, per source — including the Mets, who have an open bullpen spot.”

— Anthony DiComo, MLB.com Reporter

The takeaway

The Mets' inability to re-sign Drew Smith, a former reliable bullpen arm, is a setback as they look to build a complete roster capable of contending in the NL East. The team will need to explore other options to bolster their pitching staff ahead of the upcoming season.