Luke Jackson To Opt Out Of Mets Contract

"As one might expect for a grounder specialist, Jackson's performance has tended to wax and wane in relation to his BABIP. Jackson's control has always been spotty and his strikeout numbers have fluctuated rather sharply, and evened out at a 23.2% career strikeout rate. The 2025 season saw Jackson post a 4.06 ERA, 17.4K%, 12.8% walk rate, and 51.7% grounder rate over 51 innings with the Rangers, Tigers, and Mariners, as a .253 BABIP helped Jackson overcome his shaky secondary metrics."

Luke Jackson, a right-handed pitcher, triggered an opt-out clause in a minor league contract with the Mets signed in early April. Depending on the clause terms, he could become a free agent immediately or if the Mets do not add him to the active roster within the next few days. His minor league results include a 0.00 ERA over three innings at high-A St. Lucie, followed by an 11.57 ERA over five games and 4 2/3 innings at Triple-A Syracuse. The Triple-A stretch featured seven walks and two strikeouts, contributing to the Mets’ lack of urgency to promote him, especially because a 40-man roster move would be required. Jackson has 10 Major League seasons, including a 3.97 ERA in Atlanta bullpen work and a 1.98 ERA in 2021. His performance has varied with BABIP, with 2025 numbers showing a 4.06 ERA and a .253 BABIP helping offset weaker secondary metrics. If he becomes a free agent, he is likely to sign another minor league deal quickly given his recent movement across organizations.

Read at MLB Trade Rumors