4 under the radar Mets who could play crucial roles in 2022

2. NY Mets Relief Pitcher Drew Smith

While the Mets undoubtedly need to add to the bullpen, they do have some pieces in place that could make a difference this upcoming season. It is no secret that the bullpen was one of the team's biggest weaknesses last season, and the loss of Aaron Loup to the Phillies will no doubt be a tough blow. However, with pieces such as Edwin Diaz, Seth Lugo, Miguel Castro, and Trevor May in place the team does have some talent to work with.

However, the one player who could truly be a difference-maker for the team this season is Drew Smith. Smith may not be a huge household name, but the young right-hander pitched well last season, and if he can continue the success he showed last year, he can be a real asset for the rotation.

According to Baseball Reference, Smith threw 41.1 innings last year for the Mets, in which he went 3-1 with a 2.41 ERA and 41 strikeouts. Since he came up to the big leagues late, Smith is 28-years old but has very little mileage on his arm as a typical reliever his age would have. He has good velocity, and has shown poise in his time in the major leagues, two key factors that could bode well for him this season.

If Smith can pitch like he did last season, he will add another strong piece to the bullpen, which will hope to have bounce-back seasons from both Lugo and May. Those three, in addition to Diaz, Castro and potential left-hander added via Free Agency and the Mets could have a pretty solid bullpen next season.