Red Sox Get Major Update On Three-Time All-Star Bullpen Target
Edwin Díaz's contract length could be a roadblock for the Mets
The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, Will Sammon and Katie Woo revealed earlier this month that the Boston Red Sox are open to the idea of building a “super bullpen.” A potential target, Edwin Díaz, just got a major update on his contract negotiations with the New York Mets.
According to Sammon, the length of Díaz’s contract is a “sticking point” for the Mets in negotiations. Díaz reportedly wants a deal similar to the five-year, $102 million deal he just opted out of.
Díaz is a three-time All-Star and a beloved Met. He is one of the best relievers in baseball, winning his third Reliever of the Year Award this year. While he is a fan favorite in Queens and has the Mets as his top choice, he has noted he is willing to leave the Mets to get the best deal for him and his family.
“Just get the best deal for my family. … I love New York,” Díaz told Newsday’s Laura Albanese earlier this month when asked about his free agency wishes. “I would love to stay in New York, but if I have to go another place, I would be happy. I want to win a ring, so wherever I go, I want to win a ring and enjoy the time.”
Díaz would certainly help the Red Sox’s “super bullpen” plans. He and Chapman would give the Red Sox two closers at the backend of games. Having two closers would essentially give Alex Cora a path to shutting down games starting in the eighth inning.
Díaz will not be cheap, and his comments indicate the highest bidder will be the team he lands with. The Red Sox have the resources to pay him, but it remains to be seen whether he would accept a deal where he is not guaranteed the ninth inning.
The Red Sox extended Aroldis Chapman last season, and he was the American League Reliever of the Year. He was stellar as the Red Sox’s closer, so Díaz would not be a lock to take over that role. On most other teams, Díaz would be the clear closer.
If contract talks between the Mets and Díaz stall out, the Red Sox could swoop in and be serious contenders. Díaz wants to win, and joining forces with Chapman could be a great way to do that.
