Mets Strip Edwin Díaz of Closer Role: What’s Next for the Star Reliever?
The New York Mets have reportedly removed Edwin Díaz from the closer role, a decision that marks a significant turning point for the team’s bullpen. This move follows a rocky period for the right-hander, who has struggled to regain his dominant 2022 form. While the Mets have yet to announce a permanent replacement, Díaz’s demotion raises critical questions about his future and the team’s bullpen strategy moving forward.
Díaz’s Struggles and Performance Issues
Díaz, known for his electric fastball and devastating slider, was one of baseball’s most feared closers in 2022, when he posted a 1.31 ERA with 32 saves and 118 strikeouts in 62 innings. However, injuries and inconsistency have plagued him since, with a notable decline in his velocity and command. During the 2024 season, he suffered a slump that resulted in three consecutive blown saves, prompting the Mets to adopt a closer-by-committee approach.
Spring training in 2025 did not ease concerns, as Díaz’s fastball velocity dipped below his usual triple-digit mark. Reports suggest that his mechanics have been off, leading to control issues and a lack of the sharpness that once made him nearly unhittable. With the season fast approaching, the Mets’ coaching staff decided it was time for a change, stripping him of his ninth-inning duties.
The Mets’ New Bullpen Approach
With Díaz no longer the automatic choice for the closer role, the Mets will likely rely on a mix of relievers to finish games. Manager Carlos Mendoza may turn to options like veteran reliever Adam Ottavino or rising star Brooks Raley, both of whom have late-inning experience. There is also speculation that the Mets could explore external options through a trade or free-agent signing to stabilize the bullpen.
The decision to remove Díaz from closing duties does not necessarily mean he will be sidelined entirely. He could be used in lower-pressure situations to rebuild his confidence and work on his mechanics. If he shows signs of improvement, a return to the closer role later in the season is not out of the question.
What’s Next for Díaz?
For Díaz, this demotion is undoubtedly a setback, but it also presents an opportunity for him to make adjustments. Many dominant closers, such as Aroldis Chapman and Craig Kimbrel, have faced similar struggles in their careers but managed to bounce back. His ability to refine his delivery, regain lost velocity, and command his pitches will determine whether he can reclaim his role.
Additionally, the Mets have invested heavily in Díaz, signing him to a five-year, $102 million contract in 2022. Given that financial commitment, they have every incentive to help him return to form rather than give up on him completely.
Final Thoughts
While this move is a major shift for the Mets, it does not necessarily spell the end of Díaz’s time as a closer. The 2025 season will be a crucial period for him to prove that he can still be the dominant force he once was. If he can adapt and make the necessary adjustments, there’s still hope for a comeback.