The New York Mets are gearing up for one of the busiest offseasons in recent years. With new ownership in place and a promising young core, the team is looking to make some big moves in order to become serious contenders in the upcoming season. However, this time around, it won’t just be about bringing in new players to the team. The Mets will also have to focus on re-signing some key players who were integral to the team’s success in the past.
One of the biggest names on the Mets’ re-signing list is closer Edwin Diaz. The 26-year-old had an outstanding season in 2021, recording 38 saves and a 1.38 ERA. He was a key factor in the team’s success and played a crucial role in their playoff run. However, the Mets’ negotiations with Diaz have hit a snag, causing a delay in the re-signing process.
According to recent reports, the Mets and Diaz are at a standstill over a disagreement of $77.5 million. The team offered the star closer a four-year, $77.5 million extension, which would make him the highest-paid reliever in MLB history. However, Diaz’s camp is reportedly holding out for a five-year, $82.5 million contract. This $5 million difference has put a strain on the negotiations and has even led to a potential trade threat from an American League rival team.
Despite the current impasse, both parties are confident that a deal will eventually be reached. Mets president Sandy Alderson stated, “We’ve made an offer to Edwin and his representative, and we’re in communication with them. We hope to bring it to a successful conclusion.”
It’s no surprise that the Mets are keen on re-signing Diaz. After struggling in his first season with the team in 2019, the flamethrower has bounced back and solidified himself as one of the best closers in the game. His electric stuff and ability to shut down opponents in high-pressure situations make him a valuable asset for any team.
Moreover, the Mets have a history of success with dominant closers. Remember the days of Billy Wagner and Jeurys Familia? Diaz has the potential to join that elite group and become a fan favorite for years to come. He has already formed a strong bond with his teammates and has become an important leader in the clubhouse.
But it’s not just about Diaz. The Mets have several other key players who are set to hit free agency this offseason. This includes star pitcher Marcus Stroman, who has been a consistent force in the team’s rotation. Stroman has expressed his desire to return to the Mets, but the two parties have yet to reach a new deal.
In addition, the Mets will also have to make decisions regarding the future of players like Michael Conforto, Noah Syndergaard, and Javier Baez. All three players have been instrumental in the team’s success and will be in high demand on the free-agent market.
The Mets’ new owner, Steve Cohen, has made it clear that he is willing to spend big in order to turn the team into a championship contender. With a payroll expected to exceed $200 million in 2022, the Mets have the financial resources to re-sign their key players and make a few splashy moves in free agency.
For the Mets, this offseason will not be just about adding new players to their roster. It will also be about retaining their core group and building a team that can compete for a World Series title. With the talent and financial backing in place, the Mets have the potential to become one of the most dominant teams in the league.
In conclusion, the Mets’ offseason is shaping up to be one of the busiest and most important ones in recent memory. The team has a lot at stake and will need to make smart decisions in order to take the next step towards greatness. Fans can only hope that the front office can successfully navigate the negotiations and re-sign their key players, including Edwin Diaz. With the right moves, the Mets could be well on their way to a memorable and successful season in 2022.
