Mets Bring Back Veteran Pitcher Robert Stock on Major League Deal

The New York Mets are bringing back a familiar pitcher as they continue preparing for the 2027 season.

Veteran right-hander Robert Stock has agreed to a one-year major league contract with New York, giving the club additional pitching depth following his injury-shortened comeback season.

The agreement was announced Friday, according to RotoWire.

Stock, who turns 37 later this month, made eight appearances for the Mets in 2026, including seven starts, finishing 1-3 with a 5.93 ERA.

He recorded 29 strikeouts and 15 walks across 30 1/3 innings.

Although those numbers were inconsistent, Stock showed flashes of effectiveness after overcoming a significant medical setback.

The veteran underwent surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome during spring training, putting his season in jeopardy before it began.

He returned to minor league action in June and earned a promotion to New York in August.

His return to the majors represented a significant milestone after months of rehabilitation and uncertainty about whether he would pitch again that season.

However, Stock's comeback ended prematurely when he developed numbness in the fingers of his pitching hand.

The injury was linked to circulation problems following his earlier surgery.

Stock was placed on the injured list in September after deciding he couldn't reliably predict how his hand would respond during a start.

Despite that setback, the Mets evidently believe he can contribute next season.

Stock's experience as both a starter and reliever provides flexibility for a pitching staff facing several offseason questions.

New York has promising young starters in Nolan McLean, Christian Scott, Zac Thornton and Jonah Tong, but the organization also needs dependable depth behind its potential rotation.

Stock could compete for a bullpen role, particularly as a multi-inning reliever, while remaining available for occasional starts if injuries create openings.

His return follows other moves aimed at strengthening New York's pitching options.

Earlier this week, the Mets claimed right-handers Jack Anderson and Pierson Ohl while making several additional roster changes.

The team also faces decisions about its existing starters, including Kodai Senga's potential role in 2027.

Re-signing Stock doesn't resolve New York's larger pitching needs, but it gives the Mets another experienced option as they attempt to rebuild their staff following a disappointing 2026 season.