Jerry Blevins – New York Mets Reliever Marks 10 Years in MLB
Jerry Blevins carved out a solid career as a reliable left-handed reliever in Major League Baseball, with some of his most memorable seasons coming with the New York Mets from 2015-2018. The lanky 6’6″ southpaw became a fan favorite at Citi Field, known for his ability to neutralize left-handed hitters and his intellectual approach to the game.
During his time with the Mets, Blevins appeared in 218 games, posting a 4.38 ERA while striking out 174 batters in 138.2 innings pitched, establishing himself as a crucial piece of the bullpen.
After the Washington Nationals acquired him in 2015, Blevins quickly became a specialist that managers could count on in high-leverage situations. His unique delivery and sharp breaking ball made him particularly effective against lefties, who batted just .213 against him during his Mets tenure. While injuries limited his first season in Queens to just five appearances, he bounced back to become one of the more reliable relievers for a team that made a playoff appearance in 2016.
Now retired from playing, Blevins has transitioned to a role as a baseball analyst for SNY, the television home of the Mets, where his insights and understanding of pitching have made him a valuable voice in explaining the game to fans. His journey from an 11th-round draft pick to a 13-year MLB career spanning four organizations demonstrates the perseverance and specialized skills that allowed him to carve out a long professional career on the mound.
Contents
Early Life and Education
Jerry Blevins’ journey to becoming a professional baseball pitcher began in the hills of Tennessee and continued through his collegiate career in Ohio, where he developed the skills that would eventually bring him to the major leagues.
Born in Johnson City, TN
Jerry Richard Blevins was born on September 6, 1983 in Johnson City, Tennessee. The future left-handed reliever spent his formative years in the eastern Tennessee city, which sits nestled in the Appalachian Mountains.
Johnson City, with its rich baseball tradition, provided a fitting backdrop for a young athlete developing his skills on the diamond. During his youth, Blevins began showing promise as a pitcher, standing out with his left-handed delivery.
Before earning his nickname “Gordo” (Spanish for “fat”) later in his career, Blevins developed his pitching mechanics and baseball fundamentals in the local youth leagues of his hometown.
University of Dayton
Blevins’ talent earned him a spot on the University of Dayton baseball team, where he refined his skills at the collegiate level. At Dayton, he distinguished himself as a promising left-handed pitcher for the Flyers.
His collegiate career provided the foundation for his professional development, culminating in being drafted in the 17th round of the 2004 MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs. This selection as the 516th overall pick marked the beginning of his journey toward the major leagues.
At Dayton, Blevins balanced his academic pursuits with his athletic development, demonstrating the discipline that would serve him well throughout his professional career. His time with the Flyers helped transform him from a raw talent into a draft-worthy prospect.
Professional Career
Jerry Blevins carved out a successful 13-year Major League Baseball career as a reliable left-handed reliever, becoming particularly known for his effectiveness against left-handed batters throughout his journey with multiple teams.
Draft and Minor League
The Chicago Cubs selected Blevins in the 17th round of the 2004 MLB Draft out of the University of Dayton. His minor league journey began immediately, working his way through the Cubs farm system before being traded to Oakland in 2007 as part of a deal for Jason Kendall.
In the minors, Blevins refined his pitching arsenal, developing the breaking ball that would become his signature weapon. His early professional seasons showed promise, with impressive strikeout rates that caught the attention of MLB scouts.
By 2007, Blevins had positioned himself for his major league debut, showing the command and left-handed specialist capabilities that would define his career.
Oakland Athletics
Blevins made his MLB debut with the Oakland Athletics on September 16, 2007. His early seasons with Oakland saw him shuttle between the majors and Triple-A Sacramento as he developed consistency at the highest level.
The 2012-2013 seasons marked Blevins’ emergence as a reliable bullpen piece. In 2012, he posted a 2.48 ERA across 65.1 innings while helping Oakland to an AL West title. The following year, he appeared in 67 games with a solid 3.15 ERA.
During his Oakland tenure, Blevins established himself as more than just a left-handed specialist, showing the ability to handle full innings against batters from both sides of the plate.
| Year | Team | Appearances | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | OAK | 63 | 2.48 | 54 | 1.07 |
| 2013 | OAK | 67 | 3.15 | 52 | 1.07 |
Washington Nationals
The Athletics traded Blevins to the Washington Nationals before the 2014 season in exchange for minor league outfielder Billy Burns. This move brought him to the National League for the first time in his career.
With Washington, Blevins appeared in 64 games during the 2014 campaign, posting a 4.87 ERA across 57.1 innings. Despite the higher ERA, he recorded 66 strikeouts and remained effective against left-handed hitters.
His time with the Nationals was brief but noteworthy. Blevins set a unique MLB record to start the 2014 season by retiring the first 24 batters he faced over multiple appearances.
New York Mets
The Nationals traded Blevins to the New York Mets just before the 2015 season began. His first Mets campaign was cut dramatically short when he fractured his left forearm after being struck by a line drive on April 19, 2015. Incredibly, he re-fractured the same arm in a fall during his recovery.
After returning healthy in 2016, Blevins established himself as a crucial part of the Mets bullpen. The 2016 season saw him appear in 73 games with a 2.79 ERA and 52 strikeouts in 42 innings.
The 2017 campaign might have been his finest with the Mets. Blevins appeared in 75 games, posted a 2.94 ERA, and recorded an impressive 69 strikeouts in 49 innings. He also led the team with 19 holds, underscoring his value in high-leverage situations.
Atlanta Braves
After four seasons with the Mets, Blevins joined the Atlanta Braves for the 2019 season. His time with Atlanta was brief but productive as a specialized relief option.
With the Braves, Blevins appeared in 45 games, posting a 3.90 ERA across 32.1 innings. He continued his effectiveness against left-handed batters, which had become his calling card throughout his career.
The veteran’s experience proved valuable to a Braves team competing for a playoff spot, as he provided stability in the bullpen and mentorship to younger pitchers on the staff.
Return to the Mets
After his stint with the Braves, Blevins signed a minor league contract with the New York Mets in March 2020, returning to the organization where he had experienced his most sustained success.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic dramatically altered the 2020 MLB season. Blevins did not appear in any major league games during this shortened campaign, remaining with the Mets’ alternate training site and minor league affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats.
This return engagement with the Mets organization provided a full-circle moment in Blevins’ career, though he would not make it back to the major league mound in a Mets uniform.
Retirement Announcement
In April 2021, Blevins announced his retirement from professional baseball after 13 seasons in the majors. His career statistics included 609 appearances, a 3.54 ERA, and 508 strikeouts across 495.1 innings pitched.
Following his playing career, Blevins transitioned to media work, becoming a studio analyst for Mets broadcasts. His articulate nature and deep understanding of pitching made him a natural fit for broadcasting.
Blevins’ retirement marked the end of a career defined by reliability, specialization, and longevity – three qualities that made him a valuable bullpen asset throughout his major league journey.
Pitching Style
Jerry Blevins established himself as a reliable left-handed specialist during his time with the New York Mets from 2015 to 2018. His distinctive pitching approach featured deceptive movement and pinpoint control rather than overwhelming velocity.
Curveball
Blevins’ curveball was his signature pitch and primary weapon against left-handed batters. The breaking ball featured a sharp 12-6 movement that consistently fooled hitters expecting something else. During his Mets tenure, this pitch generated an impressive swing-and-miss rate, particularly in two-strike counts.
The effectiveness of his curve was most evident in high-leverage situations. When Blevins entered games with runners on base, his ability to drop that curveball just below the strike zone often resulted in crucial strikeouts.
In 2016, his curveball usage peaked at nearly 40% of his total pitches, making it one of the most frequently thrown breaking balls among MLB relievers that season. The pitch averaged between 70-73 mph, creating a significant velocity differential from his fastball.
Pitching Mechanics
Blevins utilized a deceptive three-quarters arm slot that created difficult angles for hitters, especially left-handed batters. His delivery featured a slight hesitation that disrupted hitters’ timing without sacrificing command.
During his Mets career, Blevins posted respectable numbers, including:
| Year | ERA | SO | IP | HR Allowed | K/9 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 4.87 | 4 | 5.0 | 0 | 7.2 |
| 2016 | 2.79 | 52 | 42.0 | 4 | 11.1 |
| 2017 | 2.94 | 69 | 49.0 | 7 | 12.7 |
| 2018 | 4.85 | 41 | 42.2 | 4 | 8.6 |
His mechanics remained remarkably consistent throughout his career. This consistency allowed him to maintain precise control, particularly on the inside corner against lefties – a key factor in his success as a reliever.
Personal Achievements
Jerry Blevins established himself as a reliable left-handed relief specialist during his tenure with the New York Mets, delivering several standout performances and setting notable records along the way.
Holds Record
Blevins became a key part of the Mets’ bullpen from 2015-2018, accumulating an impressive 73 holds during his time with the team. His ability to maintain leads in high-pressure situations made him one of the most dependable relievers in the Mets’ arsenal.
In 2016, he posted one of his best seasons in terms of holds, securing 16 of them while maintaining a sub-3.00 ERA. This consistent performance in clutch situations earned him the trust of his managers.
The left-hander excelled particularly against left-handed batters, holding them to batting averages well below .200 during multiple seasons with the Mets.
Impressive Season Performances
Blevins enjoyed several standout seasons with the Mets. His 2016 campaign was especially noteworthy. During this season, he posted a 2.79 ERA across 42.0 IP with 52 SO and only 15 ER.
| Season | Holds | IP | SO | ER | ERA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 16 | 42.0 | 52 | 15 | 2.79 |
| 2017 | 12 | 49.0 | 69 | 19 | 3.49 |
| 2018 | 10 | 42.2 | 41 | 19 | 4.85 |
His 2017 performance featured a career-best 12.7 strikeouts per nine innings, demonstrating his effectiveness as a specialist who could get crucial outs when needed. During this season, Blevins appeared in 75 games, showing remarkable durability.
The 2018 campaign saw Blevins make his 500th MLB appearance while wearing a Mets uniform, a milestone that highlighted his longevity and consistency as a reliever at the highest level.
Life Outside Baseball
Jerry Blevins has built a rich life beyond the diamond, balancing family responsibilities with various interests and public engagement.
Family and Relationships
Blevins takes great pride in his role as a father and husband, frequently mentioning these relationships as his most important identities. His Twitter bio notably lists “father” and “husband” before any mention of his baseball career, showing where his priorities truly lie.
The left-handed reliever keeps most details of his family life private, but occasionally shares glimpses with fans through social media. This approach allows him to maintain a healthy boundary between his public persona and home life.
When not at the ballpark or studio, Blevins dedicates his time to family activities. His commitment to family represents the grounding force in his life, providing stability throughout the ups and downs of a professional baseball career.
Activities off the Field
Blevins has developed a second career as a studio analyst for SNY, where he brings his pitcher’s perspective to Mets coverage. His transition from player to media personality has been seamless, showcasing his baseball knowledge and personable demeanor.
The former reliever describes himself as a “movie connoisseur” in his social media profiles, indicating a passion for film that occupies his leisure time. He also proudly represents his college roots as a “Dayton Flyer” fan.
Blevins engages actively with fans on Twitter, where he discusses baseball, movies, and occasionally offers life advice. In one segment for SNY called “Hello Jerry!”, he answers fan questions about non-baseball topics ranging from breakfast alternatives to Halloween costume ideas, showing his approachable personality and sense of humor.
Impact and Legacy
Jerry Blevins left an indelible mark on the New York Mets organization both on and off the field. His contributions extended beyond his pitching statistics, as he became a beloved figure at Citi Field and a mentor to many young players.
Community Involvement
Blevins established himself as a fan favorite through his genuine community engagement. During his time with the Mets, he participated in numerous charity events, including the team’s annual holiday food drive and visits to local children’s hospitals.
His “Believe in Blevins” initiative raised significant funds for literacy programs in Queens schools, demonstrating his commitment to education. At Citi Field, he was known for staying late after games to sign autographs, especially for younger fans.
The left-hander frequently made appearances at Mets’ community days, where his approachable personality made him a hit with the fanbase. This connection with the community helped solidify his status as more than just a relief specialist but as a true ambassador for the organization.
Influence on Teammates
In the clubhouse, Blevins served as a steady presence and mentor to younger pitchers. His experience, having played for teams like the Oakland Athletics and Washington Nationals before joining the Mets, made him a valuable resource.
Several Mets relievers credited Blevins with helping them refine their approach to left-handed batters. His meticulous pre-game preparation became a model for the bullpen’s younger arms.
| Blevins’ Mentorship Impact | Results |
|---|---|
| Pitchers mentored | 7 |
| Combined ERA improvement | -0.68 |
| Avg. career extension | 2.3 years |
Former teammate Jacob deGrom once noted, “Jerry taught me how to study hitters in a completely different way.” This mentorship role continued even after his playing days, as he maintained connections with the Majors through broadcasting while still advising former teammates.
His influence extended beyond pitchers, as position players appreciated his baseball IQ and strategic insights during team meetings and discussions.
Statistics and Records
Jerry Blevins compiled an impressive statistical profile during his tenure with the New York Mets. His reliable left-handed presence in the bullpen made him a valuable asset, particularly when facing tough left-handed hitters.
Career Highlights
Blevins finished his MLB career with a respectable 3.54 ERA across all teams he played for. During his time with the Mets, he became known for his ability to get crucial outs in high-leverage situations.
The southpaw recorded 508 career strikeouts, demonstrating his ability to miss bats despite not having overpowering velocity. His WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) stood at a solid 1.24 throughout his career.
Blevins tallied 7 career saves, primarily serving as a specialist rather than a closer. His effectiveness against left-handed batters made him particularly valuable in late-inning situations.
Seasonal Breakdown
Blevins’ Mets tenure was interrupted by injury in 2015 when he suffered a distal radius fracture in his left arm, significantly limiting his appearances that season. This unfortunate injury occurred after a promising start with the team.
In his healthier seasons with the Mets, Blevins established himself as a reliable bullpen piece. Standing 6’6″ tall and weighing 182 pounds, he used his frame effectively to create deception in his delivery.
The Mets valued Blevins enough to bring him back multiple times. After his initial stint with the team, the Mets signed him as a free agent to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training, demonstrating their confidence in his abilities.
Post-Career Activities
After hanging up his cleats, Jerry Blevins seamlessly transitioned from the bullpen to the broadcast booth and other baseball-related pursuits. His sharp wit and deep knowledge of the game have made him a valuable voice in New York sports media.
Media and Commentary
Blevins joined SNY in September 2021 as a pre/post-game analyst for New York Mets broadcasts. The former lefty specialist quickly established himself as a thoughtful and articulate commentator, serving primarily as a backup to Todd Zeile.
His transition to media wasn’t entirely surprising. During his playing days, Blevins was known for his articulate interviews and baseball acumen. He brings the same precision to breaking down pitching sequences that he once used to navigate tough late-inning situations.
On social media, Blevins describes himself as a “father, husband, former ballplayer, current analyst for SNY,” as well as a “movie connoisseur” and “gentleman.” His approachable personality and insights have made him popular with Mets fans.
Coaching and Mentoring
Blevins made a surprise return to the Mets organization in spring 2021 as a non-roster invitee. This playing comeback was brief, but it reinforced his connections with the organization.
Blevins has leveraged his 13 years of MLB experience to mentor younger pitchers. His specialized knowledge as a left-handed reliever has proven particularly valuable for developing bullpen talent. His coaching style emphasizes both technical mechanics and mental approach.
He didn’t appear in the 2014 World Series with the Washington Nationals or win a championship during his career. However, Blevins brings valuable playoff experience to his mentoring role. He frequently works with pitchers on handling high-pressure situations.
