The Mets added some bullpen depth to their system on Friday, acquiring right-hander Vinny Nittoli in a trade from the Cubs, according to MLB.com.
The return for Nittoli is not yet known.
Nittoli, 32, has appeared in just three major league games — two last season in Philadelphia and one in 2021 with Seattle.
He opted out of his minor league deal on Thursday after he pitched 20 ⅔ innings in 16 appearances with the Cubs Triple-A Iowa City affiliate.
Nittoli can be optioned to the minors by the Mets.
Nittoli, who spent most of last season in the Yankees organization, will be added to the Mets’ 40-man roster.
The Mets will not have to make a corresponding move as they had two open spots.
Without Edwin Diaz, out for at least most of the season after suffering a knee injury during the WBC, the Mets bullpen has gotten excellent work from David Robertson, who replaced Diaz as closer.
Vinny Nittoli pitching for Italy during the WBC on March 9, 2023. Getty ImagesAdam Ottavino and Brooks Raley have also pitched well, as has Jeff Brigham.
