Reed Garrett’s breakout success with the Mets has indeed been remarkable. Although he wasn’t originally acquired by David Stearns, his performance has undoubtedly made him a crucial asset in the pitching department. Garrett’s journey to prominence seems like a classic case of perseverance meeting opportunity. Despite not always performing at his current level, he’s demonstrated versatility by excelling in various pitching roles, from long innings to closing games. Stearns’ belief in him and decision to retain him have proven wise, as Garrett’s stats speak volumes about his impact. His breakout season, with a phenomenal 1.50 ERA, a perfect 5-0 record, and a leading FWAR of 0.8 on the Mets, showcases his newfound dominance. It’s a testament to his dedication and skill that he’s now performing at a level that is 693% better than the league average, making him a standout player on the team. Garrett’s success is not only unexpected but also awe-inspiring, and it underscores the unpredictability and excitement that can come with sports.
Reed Garrett’s journey to success certainly had its share of challenges and setbacks. Despite being drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2014, his minor league performances didn’t translate well into success at the major league level. His early years in the minors were difficult, and when he finally made his MLB debut in 2019 with the Tigers, his performance was far from stellar, with a high ERA of 8.20 in 13 games.

After struggling in the majors in 2019, Garrett found himself out of the MLB for a couple of seasons, returning in 2022 only to face more disappointment with a 6.75 ERA. The following year didn’t prove any easier, as he struggled with a 6.41 ERA split between the Orioles and the Mets. With just a 1-1 record and a combined 6.89 ERA across three seasons, his future in the majors seemed uncertain.

However, despite these challenges, Garrett’s perseverance paid off in a big way in 2024 with the Mets. Suddenly emerging as a dominant force, he achieved a remarkable 5-0 record with a stellar 1.50 ERA. His performance was nothing short of a masterpiece, especially considering his previous struggles. The fact that he went scoreless for 26 innings speaks volumes about his turnaround and newfound success. It’s a testament to his resilience and determination to overcome adversity and prove himself as a valuable asset to his team.
Reed Garrett’s remarkable success with the Mets in 2024 is undoubtedly a key highlight of their pitching staff. With a bullpen featuring strong performers like Adam Ottavino, Brooks Raley, Jorge Lopez, Jake Diekman, and Edwin Diaz, Garrett’s standout performance has elevated him to the top of the Mets’ pitching ranks for the season.

David Stearns’ role in crafting this impressive bullpen cannot be overstated. While he may not have brought in all the pieces himself, his leadership in establishing a strong core of pitchers and keeping the door open for minor league talent has been instrumental. Stearns’ willingness to pursue a diverse range of talents for the team has paid dividends, as seen in Garrett’s remarkable turnaround and success.

Garrett’s performance serves as a testament to the Mets’ perseverance and determination to overcome odds. His success embodies the team’s resilience and serves as a defining feature of their 2024 season. With such strong pitching performances, the Mets’ playoff hopes remain alive, showcasing the team’s potential for continued success.