With the Major League Baseball trade deadline approaching, the New York Mets are actively pursuing ways to strengthen their bullpen amid growing uncertainty surrounding closer Edwin Díaz’s future. The team aims to safeguard their pitching staff‘s effectiveness while preparing for the possibility that Díaz may not remain with the club beyond this season.
The Uncertain Outlook for Edwin Díaz and Its Implications
The Mets face a critical decision as Edwin Díaz, their star closer, could join teammate Pete Alonso in negotiating new contracts after the season. Having missed the entire previous year due to injury, Díaz has made a strong comeback, demonstrating elite performance that might encourage him to explore opportunities elsewhere. Since his current contract’s value is set to decline over the next three years, the Mets must plan for scenarios where Díaz may depart, making a reliable bullpen replacement a top priority.
Why Griffin Jax Emerges as a Strong Bullpen Candidate
ESPN analyst Jeff Passan recently highlighted Minnesota Twins reliever Griffin Jax as a key target for the Mets ahead of the trade deadline. Jax is praised for his exceptional command and ability to throw devastating off-speed pitches, qualities that directly address the Mets’ ongoing challenges with control among their current relief pitchers.
Getting Brooks Raley back helps, but the majority of Mets relievers struggle with control. Jax is all about command, and his ability to spot his wicked off-speed pitches is as good as any reliever in the game,
Passan noted.
Despite a 3.74 ERA, Jax’s advanced metrics tell a more impressive story. Over 43 2/3 innings, he has recorded 68 strikeouts and maintained a remarkable 1.92 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), indicating dominance beyond conventional statistics. These attributes could prove invaluable in high-pressure moments, especially during playoff runs.
Balancing Present Needs and Long-Term Strategy with Jax
Acquiring Griffin Jax would not only improve the Mets’ bullpen immediately but might also represent a fiscally prudent decision. Without a significant number of saves to his name, Jax’s arbitration salary demands are expected to remain reasonable, offering financial flexibility as the Mets manage their roster amid potential free agency losses.
Though Jax’s availability cannot be guaranteed, his two remaining years of team control position him as an attractive option for the Mets, who must carefully balance current competitiveness with long-term planning as the trade deadline draws near.
Prospects for the Mets as Deadline Approaches
As the Mets evaluate their options surrounding Edwin Díaz and potential relief acquisitions like Griffin Jax, their decisions this month could heavily influence the trajectory of both the current season and future campaigns. Ensuring bullpen depth and reliability remains central to their efforts to maintain their status as contenders in a fiercely competitive league.