3 under the radar Mets relief pitcher options in free agency still available

3) Jimmy Nelson

During his first years with the Milwaukee Brewers, Jimmy Nelson was characterized as a pitcher with control and command of his pitches. During his first five seasons, Nelson more than once led the league in walks and hits by pitch among eligible pitchers.

Even during his 2017 campaign, his numbers earned him votes for the National League Cy Young Award, finishing in ninth position. Unfortunately, at this point, his injuries began to take their toll, and he was unable to stay healthy on the field.

Despite this, due to his potential and arsenal, the Los Angeles Dodgers signed Nelson several times on one-year contracts in search of getting the most out of this pitcher. Only in 2021, the only year in which he saw action with the Dodgers, he was able to pitch just 29 innings, where he finished with an ERA of 1.89.

Nelson lost part of 2021 and all of 2022 due to his Tommy John surgery and had control problems upon his return to the minors in 2023. 2024 could represent a year in which this pitcher can show a considerable level of health and be able to give decent innings of good performance to the Mets.

It needs to be remembered that pitchers returning from Tommy John tend to have a considerable adjustment period. Nelson on a minor league contract could be a contributing piece to the team throughout 2024 in the bullpen.