With that said, some extra animosity could sneak its way into the rivalry this season if a former Mets pitcher switches sides to help out the sneaky-thin Braves rotation. Jose Qui

The Mets made it clear they wanted to improve their bullpen, and did so by snagging a key left-handed ex-Braves reliever.

The New York Mets have reached an agreement with free-agent lefty reliever A.J. Minter, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. Minter is slated to make $22 million over a two-year term. He will have the ability to opt out and return to the free-agent market after the first season if he so desires.

The New York Mets were projected as a main contender to sign free-agent closer Tanner Scott, but seem to have pulled out of the running.

Turning their attention to the bullpen, the New York Mets have agreed with free agent left-hander A.J. Minter on a two-year contract, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Friday.