As the 2025 season approaches, the New York Mets are preparing for a pivotal year in their ongoing quest to stay competitive in the NL East. With a mix of established stars and emerging talent, the Mets are counting on contributions from a wide range of players — including some unheralded prospects who may get an extended look at the major league level. While names like Luisangel Acuña and Drew Gilbert have captured most of the attention, one under-the-radar arm who could surprise fans by playing a much bigger role than expected is Trey McLoughlin.
McLoughlin’s Steady Rise Through the System
McLoughlin, a right-handed pitcher who has flown under the radar for much of his minor league career, has quietly turned heads with his consistency and ability to eat innings. Originally drafted in the later rounds, McLoughlin isn’t the flashy, high-profile prospect that dominates top-100 lists. However, his reliability, durability, and strong command make him an intriguing depth piece for the Mets’ pitching staff.
Over the past two seasons, McLoughlin has shown steady growth at Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Syracuse. His ability to pound the strike zone while mixing in a deceptive slider and an improving changeup has given him the tools to succeed as either a long reliever or a spot starter — exactly the type of versatile arm the Mets may need as injuries and performance fluctuations impact the pitching rotation.
Opportunity Knocks in Queens
The Mets’ pitching depth has been a question mark heading into 2025, and with the uncertainties surrounding the back end of the rotation, McLoughlin could be called upon more frequently than anticipated. Injuries and inconsistency plagued the Mets’ staff in 2024, and if a similar scenario unfolds this year, McLoughlin may find himself eating valuable innings in both relief and starting roles.
Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has emphasized the importance of flexibility on the mound, and McLoughlin fits the mold of a pitcher who can seamlessly transition between the bullpen and rotation. His ability to keep hitters off balance and maintain composure in high-leverage situations could earn him a more prominent role as the season progresses.
Why McLoughlin Could Stick Around
What makes McLoughlin particularly intriguing is his ability to limit walks and avoid hard contact, a combination that often translates well to the major league level. His pitch efficiency allows him to stay deep into games, giving the Mets a reliable option to bridge innings and take pressure off the bullpen. While he may not generate the same buzz as some of the Mets’ top prospects, McLoughlin’s skillset makes him a valuable asset in a season where depth will be critical.
A Season of Surprises?
If McLoughlin continues to impress in spring training and takes advantage of early-season opportunities, he could easily carve out a more consistent role with the Mets in 2025. With the organization likely to cycle through a variety of arms to manage workloads and injuries, McLoughlin is well-positioned to exceed expectations and become a key contributor.
In a year where every inning counts, don’t be surprised if Trey McLoughlin quietly becomes a fixture on the Mets’ roster — offering stability, versatility, and a much-needed boost when the team needs it most.
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