The New York Mets are facing a tough decision when it comes to their star closer, Edwin Diaz. The team is hesitant to offer him a five-year deal due to his recent increase in hard-hit rates. However, this decision could end up costing them in the long run. While it may seem financially sensible to hold off on a long-term contract, former manager David Stearns is sounding the alarm and warning the Mets of the potential mistake they could be making.
Diaz has been a dominant force for the Mets since joining the team in 2019. In his first season, he recorded 26 saves and was named an All-Star. However, his performance took a turn in 2020 when his hard-hit rate jumped significantly from 30.3% to 39.7%. This has raised concerns among the Mets’ front office and has led to hesitation in offering him a long-term deal.
On paper, it may seem like a smart move to hold off on a five-year deal for a closer who has shown a decline in performance. But, as Stearns points out, this could end up being a costly mistake for the Mets. Diaz is a young and talented player with a lot of potential, and letting him go could come back to haunt the team.
Stearns, who managed Diaz during his time with the Seattle Mariners, knows firsthand the kind of impact he can have on a team. He believes that Diaz is a special talent and has the potential to be one of the best closers in the league. Stearns also acknowledges that every player goes through ups and downs in their career, and it’s important to have faith in them during those tough times.
The Mets’ hesitation to offer Diaz a long-term deal could also be seen as a lack of trust in their own player. This could have a negative impact on Diaz’s morale and could affect his performance on the field. As a closer, confidence and trust from the team are crucial, and if the Mets are not willing to give that to Diaz, it could have a ripple effect on the entire team.
It’s also important to note that Diaz’s hard-hit rate increase could be attributed to the unusual circumstances of the 2020 season. With a shortened season and no fans in the stands, players had to adjust to a different atmosphere and playing conditions. This could have affected Diaz’s performance and may not be a true reflection of his abilities.
The Mets also have to consider the market for closers in the league. Good closers are hard to come by, and the demand for them is high. If the Mets let go of Diaz, they may struggle to find a replacement who can match his talent and potential. This could end up costing them more in the long run, both financially and in terms of performance on the field.
In the end, the Mets have a tough decision to make, but they should not let their hesitation and fear of potential risks cloud their judgment. Diaz has proven himself to be a valuable asset to the team, and his potential is undeniable. It’s important for the Mets to have faith in their player and offer him a long-term deal that reflects his worth.
Stearns’ warning should serve as a wake-up call for the Mets. They cannot afford to let go of a talented player like Diaz, especially when he is in the prime of his career. The team must trust in their player and show him the support and confidence he needs to excel on the field.
In conclusion, the Mets’ decision on Edwin Diaz is indeed a tricky one, but it’s important for them to look at the bigger picture. Letting go of a talented player like Diaz could end up being a costly mistake for the team. It’s time for the Mets to put their hesitation aside and make the right decision for the future of their team.
