Mets Snatch RHP Cooper Criswell from Red Sox in Surprising Waiver Move—What’s Next for the Pitcher?

The Mets have quietly bolstered their pitching arsenal by snagging right-hander Cooper Criswell off waivers from the Red Sox—and honestly, it’s one of those moves that might just pay off down the line. Boston had inked him to a secured one-year contract this offseason, hoping to sneak him past waivers as they shuffled their 40-man roster, but Criswell piqued enough interest once designated for assignment that New York grabbed him up. This guy’s no ordinary arm; he’s shown he’s a flexible piece—starting, long relief—you name it. After a promising debut season with a 4.08 ERA over 26 outings, injuries and the minor league grind slowed him down last year, but his peripheral numbers hint he’s far from done. Interesting part? He’s out of minor league options, so the Mets are betting on keeping him right where they want him. Plenty to watch here as the season unfolds. LEARN MORE

The Mets have added to their pitching depth, claiming RHP Cooper Criswell off waivers from the Red Sox.

Boston signed Criswell to a guaranteed one-year deal above the league minimum this offseason, with hopes of it helping him sneak through waivers when they wanted to clear his 40-man roster spot.

Instead, the right-hander drew plenty of interest after being DFA’d Thursday, and lands in the Big Apple.

Criswell served as a versatile swingman during his time in Boston, contributing in the rotation and long relief.

He enjoyed a strong first season with the club, pitching to a 4.08 ERA in 26 appearances (18 starts).

The 29-year-old then spent the majority of last year down in Triple-A, appearing in just seven MLB games, before his campaign ended in late-August due to elbow inflammation.

Prior to the injury, he had a 3.57 ERA and 24.5 percent strikeout rate in 16 games (14 starts) with Worcester.

Criswell does not have any minor league options remaining.