When Jeurys Familia was first handed the closer's role in 2015, he stepped into a high-pressure situation. Filled in for injured Jenrry Mejia, the Dominican right-hander used a powerful sinker touching 98 mph, transforming the New York bullpen's backend. He efficiently handled the pressure, with 43 saves and a 1.85 ERA, leading the relief corps and helping the Mets win an unexpected National League pennant.
That dominant introduction set the stage for a record-breaking 2016 campaign. Familia became the leading late-inning reliever in the senior circuit, recording a franchise-record 51 saves to lead the major leagues. He was nearly unhittable during summer, earning an All-Star nod and finishing in the top twenty in National League MVP voting. When his sinker dived beneath bats, he provided Queens with total late-game security, becoming a marquee closer.
Familia’s career abruptly ended in 2017 after a 15-game suspension for domestic violence, damaging fan support. Upon returning, blood-clot surgery reduced his velocity, resulting in inconsistent performances. During the Mets’ 2018 rebuild, they traded him to Oakland, leveraging his remaining value.
Familia's return to Citi Field in 2019 on a $30 million, three-year deal was short-lived. His second stint didn't match his peak, as command issues, walks, and high-stress innings, especially in the ninth, made his role challenging for Mets fans.
He eventually left New York after the 2021 campaign, leaving a complex legacy in franchise history. Despite volatility and struggles off-field, his volume during the pennant window is statistically undeniable. Familia finished his Mets career with 124 saves, ranking third all-time behind John Franco and Armando Benítez, and pitched 233 games for the team.
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