The New York Mets may have unexpectedly discovered one of their most intriguing bullpen options for 2027.
Left-hander Nate Lavender has yet to surrender a run in the major leagues, putting together an extraordinary start after overcoming a lengthy battle with an elbow injury.
Since making his MLB debut on August 4, Lavender has appeared in 12 games and delivered 12.2 scoreless innings, allowing only five hits and three walks while striking out 14 batters.
His 0.63 WHIP is an even clearer indication of just how difficult he has been to hit.
For a pitcher who began the 2026 season in Single-A, the transformation has been remarkable.
Lavender’s incredible road back
Lavender missed the entire 2025 season after undergoing an internal-brace procedure on his left elbow in May 2024.
While recovering, he was selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the Rule 5 Draft. However, after spending the season on the injured list and later being designated for assignment, Lavender eventually found his way back to the Mets organization.
His 2026 campaign began with a rehabilitation assignment at Single-A St. Lucie in April.
Rather than rushing his return, Lavender gradually worked his way through the Mets’ system before reaching Triple-A Syracuse in May.
He continued to produce and eventually earned his first major-league opportunity at age 26.
The Mets selected his contract on August 4, and he has taken full advantage of the opportunity ever since.
Mets may have found a 2027 bullpen piece
Lavender’s scoreless streak continued Sunday against the San Francisco Giants, giving the Mets another encouraging reason to consider him for next season.
There is obviously no guarantee that he will maintain a 0.00 ERA indefinitely, but his current performance is not completely out of character.
Lavender has consistently demonstrated an ability to miss bats throughout his minor-league career, recording 244 strikeouts over 158.2 innings.
Even during his comeback campaign, he struck out 70 hitters across 43 innings while progressing through the Mets’ system.
That strikeout ability could make him particularly valuable to a Mets bullpen that is expected to undergo significant evaluation during the offseason.
From Single-A to MLB dominance
The biggest takeaway may be how quickly Lavender has transformed his career.
Just months ago, he was still working his way back from major elbow surgery and pitching in Single-A. Now, he is retiring major-league hitters without allowing an earned run through his first 12 appearances.
The Mets will undoubtedly want to see more before making any major decisions, but Lavender has already given the organization plenty to think about.
A pitcher who once had to fight simply to get back on the mound is suddenly making a compelling case to be part of the Mets’ bullpen plans for 2027.
From a long injury recovery to an unbelievable 0.00 ERA in the majors, Nate Lavender’s comeback story is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing developments of the Mets’ season.
