The New York Mets, constantly searching for stability in their bullpen, made a recent roster move that—while appearing minor—highlights their ongoing difficulties in finding dependable relievers. The Mets designated right-hander Tyler Zuber for assignment, only to see him promptly claimed by their division rivals, the Miami Marlins. It’s another reminder of how tricky and unpredictable bullpen construction can be—especially when potential remains unfulfilled.
Zuber, acquired at last year’s trade deadline from the Tampa Bay Rays in exchange for Paul Gervase, didn’t leave much of a mark in Queens. His lone big-league outing with the Mets saw him give up two earned runs in two innings—a small and unimpressive sample. Yet, the real frustration lies beneath the surface in his minor league numbers.
Another Arm Slips Away? Mets’ Bullpen Woes Continue
Zuber’s pro journey has reflected both raw potential and recurring control problems. A 2017 sixth-round pick by the Kansas City Royals, he made significant MLB appearances in 2020-21 before bouncing between the Diamondbacks, Guardians, and Rays. What’s always made Zuber appealing is his swing-and-miss ability—solid strikeout rates and strong whiff percentages across his career. But his ongoing battle with command, particularly high walk rates in the upper minors, has consistently held him back.
During his 2024 stint with the Mets’ Triple-A squad in Syracuse, Zuber delivered a familiar tale. In 28 innings, he allowed 20 runs (19 earned) on 32 hits, striking out 27 while issuing a troubling 15 walks. Despite his arm talent and moments of brilliance, those numbers don’t exactly scream “major league-ready.”
Now, Zuber gets a new opportunity with the Marlins, another NL East team. Miami, intrigued by his strikeout upside and a newly developed changeup, is willing to gamble. For Zuber, this represents a fresh start—and maybe the environment change is just what he needs to finally find consistency.
Adding an extra layer of intrigue—and irony—the Marlins had to designate Nick Nastrini to make room for Zuber. Nastrini, once considered a top-15 prospect in the Dodgers’ system, has dealt with his own command struggles—well-documented in scouting reports. Essentially, Miami is swapping one high-upside, control-challenged arm for another. But Nastrini’s pedigree might catch the eye of other teams… maybe even the Mets, who just watched Zuber slip through their finger.
