As the New York Mets fight to salvage their season, one veteran arm may soon find himself on the outside looking in. According to a recent analysis, the club is expected to part ways with 37-year-old reliever Craig Kimbrel—and for good reason.

Kimbrel, a nine-time All-Star, joined the Mets on a spring training deal when few expected much from the aging right-hander. To his credit, he's defied the odds so far, posting a sharp 1.92 FIP and allowing just three earned runs over 7.1 innings. But as FanSided's Zachary Rotman points out, the leash should be short.

"Kimbrel has been better than anyone could've expected," Rotman wrote. "Despite diminished velocity and stuff, he's been finding ways to get outs. But will he stick around?"

The answer likely depends on where the Mets stand at the trade deadline. If they're contending, they'll need to add bullpen help—and Kimbrel's roster spot becomes expendable. If they're selling, there's little reason to keep a 38-year-old around when younger arms in the system deserve a look.

Kimbrel's 440 career saves rank fifth all-time, but those glory days are behind him. He threw just 12 big-league innings in 2025, splitting time between the Astros and Braves. At this stage, the Mets have every incentive to prioritize the future over sentiment.

For a team navigating a pivotal season, cutting ties with Kimbrel isn't just a possibility—it's the smart play.