What Edwin Díaz Dodgers Deal Means for Mets in Latest MLB Shakeup

Edwin Díaz has reportedly agreed to a three year, 69 million dollar contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, creating one of the first major pitching moves of the MLB offseason. The agreement, reported on December 9, shifts the New York Mets’ bullpen plans and places Devin Williams in line to close games in Queens.

The deal would set a record for average annual value for a relief pitcher. The Mets chose not to match that level of spending, signaling confidence in Williams and a strategy that prioritizes flexibility across the roster.

Mets Shift to Devin Williams After Edwin Díaz Dodgers Deal

Díaz’s decision to join the Dodgers ends his second stint with the Mets and immediately changes New York’s depth chart. The club signed Devin Williams to a three year, 51 million dollar contract last week, preparing for the possibility that Díaz would move on. Williams, 30, has 86 career saves and won two National League Trevor Hoffman Reliever of the Year Awards during his time with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Last season was a difficult one for Williams with the New York Yankees, where he posted a 4.79 ERA and lost the closer role multiple times. However, he improved significantly in the second half of the season. Among pitchers with at least 25 innings after the All Star break, he recorded the second highest strikeout rate at 39.3 percent.

New York’s decision not to pursue Díaz’s price tag appears tied to broader offseason plans. The team may now prioritize rotation depth, infield support, or another impact bat. Trusted outlets including the Associated Press and Reuters have reported increased activity across the league, with several top free agents still available.

How the Move Changes the Mets’ Bullpen Outlook

The Mets enter 2026 with a restructured late inning plan. Williams becomes the primary closer, and the club may target additional setup options rather than a marquee ninth inning arm. Without Díaz, the bullpen will rely more heavily on swing and miss production from Williams alongside emerging relievers who finished strong last season.

The Dodgers, meanwhile, add one of MLB’s most dominant relievers when healthy. Díaz’s career strikeout numbers and history of big game performance have made him one of the league’s most high profile bullpen weapons. His arrival gives Los Angeles a veteran anchor as they aim to reduce high leverage workload on younger arms.

The Edwin Díaz Dodgers deal marks a significant shift for the Mets but does not leave them without solutions. With Williams in place and payroll flexibility preserved, New York enters the next phase of the offseason with options and a clear view of its bullpen direction.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did the Mets not match the Edwin Díaz Dodgers deal?

The reported salary exceeded what the Mets were willing to spend on a reliever. The team had already signed Devin Williams to close games.

Q2: Who replaces Edwin Díaz as Mets closer?

Devin Williams is expected to take over ninth inning duties after signing a three year contract last week.

Q3: How did Devin Williams perform last season?

Williams posted a 4.79 ERA but showed significant improvement in the second half, finishing with one of MLB’s highest strikeout rates.

Q4: Will the Mets add more relievers?

They may pursue setup relievers, but they are not expected to target another high priced closer.

Q5: What does the deal mean for the Dodgers?

The Dodgers gain a veteran closer with elite strikeout ability, strengthening their late inning bullpen depth.