Mets Claim Cooper Criswell Off Waivers from Red Sox

The New York Mets have added right-handed pitcher Cooper Criswell to their organization, claiming him off waivers from the Boston Red Sox, according to Jorge Castillo of ESPN. Criswell had been designated for assignment by Boston, a move that is common in MLB but notable in this case due to the Red Sox’s efforts to keep him.

Boston reportedly tried to retain Criswell by offering him an increased salary for 2026, hoping the added money would discourage other teams from claiming him. “The Red Sox gave Cooper Criswell a larger-than-normal guaranteed 2026 salary in the hopes that it would help sneak him through waivers,” Tim Healey of The Boston Globe reported, noting that the strategy ultimately failed.

Criswell, 29, is a pitcher with experience both as a starter and reliever. In 2025, he appeared in seven major league games with Boston, including one start, posting a 3.57 ERA. The previous season, he pitched in 26 games (18 starts) and posted a 4.08 ERA. His versatility makes him a potentially valuable addition for any team seeking pitching depth.

For the Mets, claiming Criswell provides another arm that could contribute at the major league level in 2026. While Boston loses a pitcher they hoped to retain, the move is unlikely to have a significant impact on the Red Sox’s offseason plans, as the team continues to adjust its roster and evaluate options.

1. Criswell’s Journey

Cooper Criswell’s path to the Mets began in Boston, where he had been utilized both in the bullpen and as a spot starter. His 3.57 ERA in limited 2025 appearances showed glimpses of reliability, while his 2024 campaign demonstrated his ability to handle a larger workload. Versatility has been a hallmark of Criswell’s professional career. Teams value pitchers who can fill multiple roles, whether starting or relieving, and Criswell offers that flexibility. His right-handed arm adds a dimension that could help the Mets in both long relief and spot-start situations. The Red Sox initially believed they could retain Criswell despite designating him for assignment. By offering a higher-than-normal guaranteed salary, Boston tried to make it financially unattractive for other teams to claim him. However, the strategy did not succeed. Now in New York, Criswell has the opportunity to carve out a role in a different organization. The Mets may leverage his experience and versatility as they continue to shape their pitching staff heading into the 2026 season.

2. Impact on the Mets

For the Mets, Criswell’s acquisition adds depth and flexibility to a pitching staff that will likely face the usual challenges of injuries and workload management over a full season. Having a right-handed arm capable of starting or relieving is an asset in both the rotation and bullpen. Criswell also brings experience at the major league level, even in limited action. His 2025 numbers suggest he can provide quality innings when called upon, helping to stabilize spots in the rotation or bridge gaps in relief situations. Beyond statistics, the addition reflects a broader strategy for the Mets to maintain roster depth and flexibility. Players like Criswell allow teams to respond to in-season needs without making disruptive trades. If Criswell performs well, he could earn a more permanent role in the Mets’ pitching plans, potentially influencing rotation and bullpen decisions during the 2026 campaign.

3. Red Sox Roster Moves

While losing Criswell was not Boston’s plan, the Red Sox have been active in shaping their roster for 2026. The team’s offseason strategy includes evaluating pitching depth, free agent signings, and potential trades to strengthen both the rotation and bullpen. Criswell’s departure is unlikely to significantly impact the team’s trajectory, given the other arms available in Boston’s system. Young pitchers and established veterans will continue to compete for spots, and the organization remains focused on building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. Boston’s waiver strategy, including the attempt to use a higher salary to retain Criswell, underscores the complexities of roster management. Even with creative approaches, teams sometimes lose players they had hoped to keep, highlighting the competitive nature of MLB transactions. Ultimately, the Red Sox move on, while Criswell begins a new chapter with the Mets, aiming to contribute to a team that sees opportunity in his versatility and experience.