The New York Mets are scratching their heads over the team’s latest bullpen move — the addition of a reliever carrying a 5.21 ERA. While it’s clear that manager Carlos Mendoza is trying to patch things up, fan reactions were filled with confusion.
According to a report from SNY, the Mets have acquired left-hander José Castillo, who began the 2025 MLB season with the Arizona Diamondbacks after a stint with the San Diego Padres. Castillo has pitched in 45 career games since debuting in 2018, and holds a 5.21 ERA over that span.
One of the first reactions on X read, “Here we go, we gonna start picking up trash cuz of the Minter injury,” referencing Castillo’s rough ERA. Another frustrated fan, @tmallilo, added, “I know trust the lab and all but this guy’s numbers are disgusting.”
Still, not all the comments were negative
While Mendoza’s decision to add another bullpen arm sparked criticism, some fans chose to remain optimistic. Bill Deegan posted, “The Mets must see something in the guy to want him.” Another replied with confidence: “We are so fixing him.”
SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – JULY 04: Jose Castillo #65 of the San Diego Padres pitches during a game against the Los Angeles Angels at PETCO Park on July 04, 2023 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
One fan offered a more measured take: “Have to believe the Mets feel or are at least willing to risk trying to get him through waivers just so they have some lefty pen depth in the system. Unless there’s an injury we don’t know about, can’t see what pen arm he’d replace on the current active roster.”
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Castillo’s standout 2018 season
The highlight of Castillo’s career came in his rookie season back in 2018. Pitching for the Padres, he posted a 3.29 ERA over 37 appearances. In 38.1 innings, he gave up just 23 hits, 14 runs, and three home runs while striking out 52.
