Edwin Díaz’s Future with Mets Could Hinge on 2024 Performance
The Mets’ $102 million closer Edwin Díaz faces a pivotal season that’ll likely determine whether he stays in Queens beyond 2025. He’s got an opt-out clause coming up after next year, and there’s plenty to consider on both sides.
Let’s back up a bit. Díaz signed that record-breaking five-year deal after his electric 2022 season, but things haven’t exactly gone according to plan. He missed all of 2023 with that tough knee injury from the World Baseball Classic, and his return last year was solid but not spectacular – a 3.52 ERA with 20 saves in 54 appearances.
What makes this interesting is the money involved. If Díaz stays put, he’s guaranteed $38 million over 2026-27 ($37 million base salary plus a $1 million buyout for 2028). That’s not counting the $26.5 million in deferred money the Mets will pay him from 2033 to 2042.
The 30-year-old closer isn’t tipping his hand just yet. When asked about his future during spring training, he told Newsday’s Tim Healey: “That’s something I gotta look at after the season with my agent, see where we’re at and make a decision. Right now, I’m not thinking about that. I love this team. I want to stay here because I love the team, I love the coaches, I love the ownership, I love everyone. I feel really good right here.”
The way things stand, Díaz would need a pretty dominant 2024 campaign to make opting out worthwhile. The free agent market for closers would need to be strong enough to beat what he’s already guaranteed from the Mets.
While Pete Alonso’s impending free agency is grabbing most of the headlines, Díaz’s situation bears watching. The Mets have invested heavily in their closer, and this season could determine whether that investment extends beyond 2025.
