New York Mets' Star Closer Edwin Diaz Set to Leave, Dodgers Favored to Land Him
Edwin Diaz's spectacular season for the New York Mets has likely sealed his fate, with the team's reluctance to commit long-term money to relief pitchers making him an unlikely candidate for a re-signing. The Mets' president of baseball operations, David Stearns, has been hesitant to invest in big-money deals for pitchers, setting a new benchmark for Diaz and other top relievers.
Diaz's decision to opt out of the last two years of his contract has set the stage for what many expect to be a massive market for relief pitchers. With two more relievers signing four-year deals worth $72 million or more in recent offseasons, it seems that Diaz will have to navigate this crowded landscape to find a new home.
According to Mets insider Anthony DiComo, the Los Angeles Dodgers are now the favorites to land Diaz, with the team's willingness to blow past luxury tax payroll making them an attractive option for the All-Star closer. The Dodgers' experience signing Tanner Scott to a four-year deal last winter has made them a prime target for Diaz, and it would not be surprising if they attempt to re-sign him.
The Mets, meanwhile, have been cautious in their approach to long-term deals for pitchers, and it's unclear whether they will make an exception for Diaz. The recent signing of Devin Williams to a three-year deal has made a return to the Mets even more unlikely, as Williams becomes a major upgrade at closer.
As the offseason heats up, Diaz will have to weigh his options carefully, considering not only the dollars but also the team's culture and chemistry. With the Dodgers and other teams in the mix, it remains to be seen which path he will choose.
Edwin Diaz's spectacular season for the New York Mets has likely sealed his fate, with the team's reluctance to commit long-term money to relief pitchers making him an unlikely candidate for a re-signing. The Mets' president of baseball operations, David Stearns, has been hesitant to invest in big-money deals for pitchers, setting a new benchmark for Diaz and other top relievers.
Diaz's decision to opt out of the last two years of his contract has set the stage for what many expect to be a massive market for relief pitchers. With two more relievers signing four-year deals worth $72 million or more in recent offseasons, it seems that Diaz will have to navigate this crowded landscape to find a new home.
According to Mets insider Anthony DiComo, the Los Angeles Dodgers are now the favorites to land Diaz, with the team's willingness to blow past luxury tax payroll making them an attractive option for the All-Star closer. The Dodgers' experience signing Tanner Scott to a four-year deal last winter has made them a prime target for Diaz, and it would not be surprising if they attempt to re-sign him.
The Mets, meanwhile, have been cautious in their approach to long-term deals for pitchers, and it's unclear whether they will make an exception for Diaz. The recent signing of Devin Williams to a three-year deal has made a return to the Mets even more unlikely, as Williams becomes a major upgrade at closer.
As the offseason heats up, Diaz will have to weigh his options carefully, considering not only the dollars but also the team's culture and chemistry. With the Dodgers and other teams in the mix, it remains to be seen which path he will choose.