Mets’ Pintaro: An Unlikely Major League Journey

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    NEW YORK — Players often find unique paths to reach Major League Baseball, but Jonathan Pintaro’s journey stands out among the most unexpected. Emerging from a Division II college in Georgia and going undrafted, Pintaro spent two years in the MLB Draft League, a haven for overlooked prospects. He further honed his skills with the Glacier Range Riders in the independent Pioneer League, where he posted a 6.60 ERA.

    So when Pintaro walked into the New York Mets’ clubhouse on Wednesday, having traveled roughly 2,400 miles from the Glacier Bank Park in Kalispell, Montana, it marked an astonishing achievement. “Quite a story, isn’t it? For a guy pitching in an independent league last year, this is a significant triumph for the organization,” stated Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. “It’s a testament to his perseverance.”

    Pintaro’s unexpected promotion came amidst the Mets’ reconfiguration of their pitching bullpen before their 7-3 win over Atlanta. Left-handed pitchers José Castillo and Richard Lovelady were cut from the roster. Pintaro was called up to the major league roster, alongside lefty Brandon Waddell, who was summoned from Triple-A Syracuse.

    Making his MLB debut at 27, Pintaro took the mound in the ninth inning. He experienced a challenging opening, walking his first batter and allowing a single, but recovered with a groundout and a strikeout. However, he yielded a two-run single to 2023 NL MVP Ronald Acuña Jr. and a walk to Matt Olson, prompting his replacement by closer Edwin Díaz.

    “It felt incredible. I am beyond thrilled for this opportunity,” Pintaro expressed. “I was understandably nervous against such talented hitters. My control was lacking, which I’ll need to work on.” After the match, Pintaro received the ball from his first strikeout against Braves shortstop Nick Allen as a memento.

    Born in Pelham, Alabama, Pintaro played five seasons from 2017-2022 at Shorter University in Georgia. During his second year in independent baseball, the Mets signed him to a minor league contract in June 2024. “It was a whirlwind of emotions,” he remembered. “I called my family, and we were overwhelmed with joy and tears.”

    Last season, Pintaro advanced through three levels of the Mets’ farm system, achieving a 3-6 record, a 2.68 ERA, and 75 strikeouts over 74 innings in 15 starts and two relief appearances. His performance earned him a spot in the Arizona Fall League, known for showcasing top prospects.

    “This has been surreal,” Pintaro told the press. “After six years of college, I was uncertain. I ventured into independent ball in Montana and decided to give it one or two more years — and then it happened.”

    Currently, Pintaro has a 0-2 record with a 3.40 ERA from 11 starts at Double-A Binghamton, boasting 57 strikeouts against 15 walks in 42 1/3 innings. “This guy knows how to get outs,” Mendoza added. “His delivery is unconventional, which combines a sinker and cutter. It’s a significant day for him, fulfilling his dream, and he promises to be an asset with his potential to pitch 75-80 pitches. We’re looking for depth and see how it unfolds.”

    Pintaro had just reached Triple-A when he received news of his leap to the majors. After being driven to Syracuse and traveling with the team to Rochester, he learned of his rapid deployment to the Mets. His first reaction was disbelief. “What a crazy ride,” Pintaro summed up.