Mets Release Pitcher Phil Bickford Ahead of Season Opener

Bickford becomes a free agent after being cut to make room for J.D. Martinez, following a salary arbitration win.

The New York Mets released pitcher Phil Bickford on Tuesday, making him a free agent for the first time in his career.
Bickford, a 28-year-old right-handed reliever, was designated for assignment last week to make room for J.D. Martinez.
He will receive $217,742 in termination pay after winning in salary arbitration, instead of the $900,000 salary chosen by a panel.
Bickford appeared in 25 games for the Mets in 2023, posting a 4.62 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 25 1/3 innings.
His release comes after a trade from the Dodgers to the Mets last year and a career that includes a 4.43 ERA over four seasons.