A.J. Minter is taking a conservative approach in his buildup, but has not lost faith in the possibility of making the Mets’ Opening Day roster.

Minter, he of 384 appearances for the Braves, third most in franchise history, now pitches for the Mets. One day he will step on the Truist Park mound in blue and orange.

Minter believes he'll be able to regain his prior velocity following last August's hip surgery, Tim Britton of The Athletic reports. The 31-year-old southpaw averaged a career-high 96.7 mph with his fastball in 2022,

After snapping a few photos, some of which included their goldendoodle who wore a handkerchief that read, “Mint to be,” Minter and his fianceé headed to a private New Year’s Eve party, where they welcomed 2025 and celebrated their love. A little more than two weeks later, Minter committed to the Mets.

The New York Mets used 28 relief pitchers last year, from Adam Ottavino’s 60 appearances to one each for Matt Festa and position players Eddy Alvarez and Luis Torrens. New York’s bullpen transformed itself throughout the season.

The New York Mets significantly improved their roster over the winter, adding Juan Soto, Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes and A.J.

Adding Juan Soto gives a jolt to an already solid offense, but thin starting pitching could be a team weakness.

The 33-year-old has been an effective setup man in the past, recording 38 holds with a 2.41 ERA, 1.22 WHIP and 145:68 K:BB over 123 innings in 2021-22 for the Astros. If Stanek struggles in a high-leverage role this season,