Unleashing the Kranick Factor: A Rising Star in the Mets’ Bullpen
In the midst of the New York Mets’ injury-plagued rotation, a lesser-known figure is quietly making waves in the bullpen. Max Kranick, a fringe reliever, showcased his potential with yet another stellar performance, further solidifying his case for a spot in the Mets’ pitching staff.
A Rising Star Emerges
In a recent Spring Training game against the Houston Astros, Kranick took the mound in the sixth inning and delivered two scoreless innings, striking out two batters and retiring all six he faced. This standout performance added to Kranick’s impressive stat line this spring, with 5.0 innings pitched, zero runs allowed, four strikeouts, and no walks.
Kranick’s pitching arsenal includes a mid-90s fastball that has touched 97 mph during Spring Training, complemented by a range of breaking balls such as a high-80s slider and a low-70s curveball. While the spotlight has mainly been on the Mets’ starting rotation, Manager Carlos Mendoza has taken note of Kranick’s consistent excellence on the mound.
From Promise to Perseverance
Kranick’s journey to the majors has been marked by resilience and determination. Drafted in the eleventh round of the 2016 MLB June Amateur Draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Kranick’s major league debut in 2021 showed glimpses of his potential. In a memorable debut against the St. Louis Cardinals, Kranick set an MLB record by retiring the first 15 batters he faced, showcasing his talent as a former starter capable of pitching multiple innings.
After a stint in the Mets’ minor league affiliates last season, Kranick’s return to the major league roster in October signaled a new chapter in his career. Signed to a one-year $800,000 contract for 2025, Kranick is now vying for a permanent spot in the Mets’ bullpen, a dream opportunity for the lifelong Mets fan.
A Dream Realized
Despite being born and raised in Pennsylvania, Kranick’s allegiance to the Mets runs deep, stemming from his childhood days as a devoted fan. With fond memories of attending games at Shea Stadium with his family and idolizing Mets legend David Wright, Kranick’s journey has come full circle as he aims to secure a spot on the Mets’ Opening Day roster.
As Kranick continues to impress on the mound this spring, his passion for the Mets and unwavering dedication to his craft position him as a rising star to watch in the Mets’ bullpen. The Kranick factor is not just about statistics and performance but also about the heart and soul of a player chasing his childhood dreams in the big leagues.
