The New York Mets continue to add to their minor league depth by claiming left-handed reliever Stephen Tarpley off waivers. Tarpley spent the abbreviated 2020 season with the Miami Marlins after starting his career with the New York Yankees.
Mets announce they've claimed left-handed pitcher Stephen Tarpley off waivers from the Marlins.
Tarpley is 27, has two options left, and has 58 strikeouts in 44 big league innings (though 6.65 ERA in that span).
Curveball is his best pitch. pic.twitter.com/5LuuNiCQMv
— Mike Mayer (@mikemayer22) January 8, 2021
The 27-year old struggled and put up a 9.00 ERA over 12 games with the Marlins. Tarpley sharp breaking ball is his trademark pitch to neutralize left-handed hitters. In 2020, lefties actually hit better against him than righties, but throughout his career, Tarpley has typically won those matchups.
Despite a 6.65 career ERA, the Mets needed Tarpley to fill out their bullpen depth. At the moment, Daniel Zamora is the only left-handed reliever on the 40-man roster and is a similar pitcher to Tarpley. Both are long shots at making the roster out of spring training. Tarpley will compete minor league acquisition Jerry Blevins in the Spring as well.
Tarpley, Blevens, and Zamora are all insurance for the possibility of Brad Hand signing elsewhere.