Mets Eyeing Young Arms for Bullpen in 2026

Several top pitching prospects could make an impact in the Mets' bullpen this season.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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The New York Mets have several young, promising pitchers in their farm system who could earn spots in the major league bullpen in 2026. Names like Jonathan Pintaro, Dylan Ross, Ryan Lambert, and Douglas Orellana are being eyed as potential contributors, with each offering unique skill sets and upside.

Why it matters

The Mets are looking to rebuild their bullpen after the departure of closer Edwin Diaz. These young arms could provide a boost of talent and energy to the relief corps as the team aims to contend in the NL East.

The details

Jonathan Pintaro, a 28-year-old right-hander, has risen quickly through the Mets' system after playing independent ball. He made his MLB debut in 2025 and could fill a variety of bullpen roles this season. Dylan Ross, a 25-year-old righty, features a triple-digit fastball and a devastating splitter that has helped him rack up strikeouts. Ryan Lambert, an 8th-round pick in 2024, boasts one of the best fastballs in the Mets' system and spent most of 2025 as Double-A Binghamton's closer. Douglas Orellana, a 23-year-old Venezuelan, lacks overpowering stuff but has a quality slider and the ability to provide multiple innings of relief.

  • Pintaro made his MLB debut in June 2025.
  • Ross reached Triple-A for the first time in 2025.
  • Lambert spent most of 2025 as Double-A Binghamton's closer.

The players

Jonathan Pintaro

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher who has risen quickly through the Mets' farm system after playing independent ball.

Dylan Ross

A 25-year-old right-handed reliever who features a triple-digit fastball and a devastating splitter pitch.

Ryan Lambert

An 8th-round pick in 2024 who boasts one of the best fastballs in the Mets' system and spent most of 2025 as Double-A Binghamton's closer.

Douglas Orellana

A 23-year-old Venezuelan right-hander who lacks overpowering stuff but has a quality slider and the ability to provide multiple innings of relief.

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What they’re saying

“Earlier this week, Mets beat writer Anthony DiComo outlined the team's bullpen situation, sans Edwin Diaz, heading into Spring Training.”

— Anthony DiComo, Mets beat writer (mlb.com)

The takeaway

The Mets are looking to their farm system to help rebuild their bullpen in 2026, with several young, promising arms vying for spots. These pitchers offer a mix of high-octane stuff, swing-and-miss potential, and versatility that could provide a much-needed boost to the relief corps as the team aims to contend in the NL East.