Is Edwin Díaz’s Closer Role with the Mets in Jeopardy?
Edwin Díaz is perfect in save opportunities this season, but that stat doesn’t tell the whole story. The Mets’ $102 million closer has converted all three save chances, but he’s also carrying a troubling 7.94 ERA through his first 5 2/3 innings.
It’s a small sample size, sure. But after struggling through 2023 following his return from a WBC injury, Díaz needed a strong start to quiet doubters. Instead, he’s allowed five earned runs on six hits and four walks, raising legitimate questions about his ninth-inning security.
The elephant in the room is Díaz’s contract. He’s making $18 million this season with another $31 million guaranteed through 2027. That’s closer money, and it’s hard to imagine the Mets demoting someone with that price tag to middle relief.
But what if there’s another option?
Newsweek’s Zach Pressnell suggested the Mets should target Cardinals two-time All-Star closer Ryan Helsley ahead of the trade deadline.
“The Mets would likely have to part ways with some top prospects in order to land a star like Helsley, but it would be well worth it if New York could bring in a closer with an ERA south of 7.00,” Pressnell wrote.
Helsley has been dominant for St. Louis, and Pressnell argues the investment would be worthwhile: “While the Mets would need to give up a few prospects ranked in their top 10, this is the kind of deal that would likely pay off big time in the postseason. The Mets can’t afford to give away games in the ninth inning if they want to steal the National League from the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
It’s an interesting proposition, but there are complications. First, would the Mets really pay premium prospect capital for what might be a rental? Spotrac projects Helsley’s next contract at six years, $81 million – not far off from what Díaz is making. That’s a steep investment for potentially just a few months of service.
Then there’s the awkward clubhouse dynamic. Bringing in Helsley specifically to replace Díaz would be a public vote of no confidence in their highly-paid closer. That’s a tough pill for any team to swallow.
What makes more sense is adding Helsley as part of a broader bullpen strengthening strategy. The Mets could initially position him as an elite setup man while giving Díaz a chance to right the ship. If Díaz continues struggling, the transition becomes more natural.
One thing’s certain – if the Mets don’t get Helsley, they might find themselves facing him in October. And that’s a scenario no team wants to contemplate.
