As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, New York Mets closer Edwin Díaz finds himself in a precarious situationone that could shape the trajectory of his career and the teams bullpen for years to come. Díaz, once celebrated as one of the top closers in the game, is entering a pivotal contract year with a mix of expectations, injury concerns, and doubts about his performance.
A Star in Decline?
Díaz, 29, burst onto the scene with the Mets in 2022, signing a historic fiveyear, 102 million deal that made him the highestpaid reliever in MLB history. In that season, he was nearly untouchable, recording a 1.31 ERA and 118 strikeouts in 62 innings. His fastball, consistently clocked at over 97 mph, helped him establish a reputation as one of the most dominant closers in the league.
However, since then, Díazs career has faced significant challenges. After missing the entire 2023 season due to a torn patellar tendon suffered during a World Baseball Classic celebration, he made a shaky return in 2024. While his ERA remained respectable at 3.52, Díaz blew seven of his 27 save opportunities, a troubling stat for any closer, especially one with his pedigree. Even more concerning, his fastball velocity has seen a noticeable dip, sitting between 9395 mph this spring, compared to the 97 mph heat he was known for in his prime.
The Mets bullpen has already begun to feel the ripple effects of Díazs struggles. Experts, including MLB analyst John Harper, have raised the possibility that Díaz could lose his closer role by the end of the season. Harper points to the rise of Dedniel Núñez, another promising reliever with a fastball that has returned to the mid90s after an injury. With Núñezs potential and Díazs declining performance, the Mets may be forced to make a tough decisionkeep Díaz as the closer or hand the reins over to Núñez.
Injury Woes and Contract Talks
Injuries have been a key factor in Díazs downward spiral. His knee surgery, which sidelined him for all of 2023, was a setback that cast doubt on his future. While he insists that he is physically stronger heading into 2025, his results on the mound have not fully backed up his optimism. The pressure on Díaz intensifies as he enters the final year before he can opt out of his contract, potentially seeking a new deal if he can return to his elite form.
Díaz has made it clear that he is not focused on his contract situation. Im not thinking about the optout, he said in February 2025. I just want to help this team win. While the Mets appreciate his commitment, the teams bullpen stability is at stake. If Díaz cannot recapture his dominant form, the Mets may be forced to explore other options, and the high price tag on his contract could make a change even more likely.
A Bleak Future or a Redemption Arc?
Despite these challenges, there is still hope for Díazs redemption. When at his best, he remains one of the most fearsome closers in baseball. His strikeout rate, at 35.3 last season, still ranks among the leagues best, showing that his stuff is still there. But with his role in jeopardy, Díaz must prove that he can stay healthy and perform consistently.
For the Mets, the situation is equally pressing. With World Series aspirations for 2025, a strong bullpen is essential to the teams success. If Díaz cannot reclaim his form, manager Buck Showalter may have no choice but to turn to other options, including Núñez, to close out games. The decision could have longterm implications for both Díazs future with the Mets and the teams postseason chances.
The coming months will be crucial for Díaz. If he can shake off his injuries and find the consistency he once had, he may not only secure his role as the Mets closer but also ensure a lucrative future in the game. However, if his struggles continue, the Mets may have no choice but to turn the page and look to other options in their bullpen.
As Díaz enters this critical phase of his career, the Mets playoff hopesand his future in New Yorkhang in the balance.