New Pitching Coach Hefner Throws Curve Into Mets’ Bullpen Mix

The New York Mets bullpen makes fans cringe just thinking about it. They’ve tried everything to improve it over the years through both additions and subtractions but nothing has really seemed to take hold.

This year, they’ve added Dellin Betances to the group that doesn’t have an anointed closer since Edwin Diaz completely imploded in 2019 and no one else stepped forward (other than swing starter Seth Lugo) to make their case as a reliable option.

One option, Justin Wilson, was used down the stretch and proved to be effective before being shut down the lat week of the season. In 45 appearances, Wilson had a 4-2 record with four saves and nine holds. He whiffed 44 batters in 39 innings with a 2.54 ERA.

This spring the Mets want to build on the 32-year-old Wilson’s strong finish. For most of his career, Wilson has relied on his 96 MPH fastball and cutter. New pitching coach Jeremy Hefner had an idea to widen Wilson’s arsenal by adding a curveball to the mix to make him a “weapon” rather than just another arm out in the bullpen.

From NorthJersey.com: 

“I think the introduction of that curveball has led him to be even more successful,” manager Luis Rojas said. “To have batters off balance and to have that breaking ball in the back of their head — and the separation of velocity (between that and his fastball) — I think it gives him that chance to throw fastballs by guys and get ahead with that breaking ball, bounce it if he needs to. So he’s got options out there.”

 

Added Hefner: “Mid-to-upper 90s fastball from the left side and a devastating cutter. You’re adding a third pitch in the mix. He easily can pitch at different points of the game, from closing to putting out a fire in the sixth. You can really deploy him in a variety of roles and it’s a real weapon for us.”

The Mets with a ‘weapon’ in the bullpen? What? When was the last time that happened? Don’t get too excited, yet, Met fans, Wilson says he still needs to polish the grip and delivery.

“It probably comes out of my hand a little bit better as far as spin,” Wilson said. “But I don’t know, maybe it was taking a little bit of pressure off the index finger. I really don’t know. You see (the improvement) instantly with all the electronics they have. Able to see hand position and all the things like that. Work in progress.”

Something to ponder as the Mets aim to compete in the NL East this season.