New York Mets star reliever Edwin Diaz is opening up about his contract situation as the team prepares for the 2025 season. Diaz, one of baseball’s premier closers, has the option to opt out of his contract after the 2025 campaign. With that looming decision on the horizon, Diaz is trying to focus on the present and not let the potential contract situation distract him.
“I’m not thinking right now about the opt-out,” Diaz told The Athletic. “I just want to help this team to win. My goal is to have a great year, help make the playoffs and win the World Series. That’s my mindset.” Diaz’s approach is all about the team and its collective success. He’s not letting the prospect of free agency derail his focus on the Mets’ ambitions.
The Mets signed Diaz to a five-year, $102 million contract in 2022, making him the highest-paid relief pitcher in baseball at the time. The deal was a significant investment in the hard-throwing right-hander, and the Mets’ front office has expressed confidence in his abilities since signing him. Diaz’s impact on the bullpen has been undeniable, and the organization believes he has all the qualities they look for in a closer.
“Edwin has every attribute we look for in a closer,” said Billy Eppler, the former Mets general manager, back in 2022. “He’s a tremendous competitor, has a burning desire to be the best and possesses the stuff to compete with any hitter in the league. We are thrilled he’ll be anchoring our bullpen moving forward.” The Mets’ investment in Diaz was a bold one, and they’re hoping it pays off with a championship-caliber season in 2025.
As the 2025 season approaches, expectations are high for the Mets, and Diaz will play a pivotal role in their quest for a World Series. New York is considered one of the top contenders in the National League, but they’ll have to contend with teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are also heavily favored to make a deep postseason run. The Mets will rely on their star players, including Diaz, to help them navigate a tough NL field.
Juan Soto’s arrival in New York has given the Mets another major offensive weapon, and he joins forces with slugger Pete Alonso to form a dynamic middle of the lineup. The duo combined for nearly 200 RBIs in 2024, making them one of the most dangerous offensive pairings in baseball. With Soto and Alonso leading the charge, the Mets’ offense should be potent in 2025, and Diaz’s job will be to close out games and secure victories.
Diaz had a solid 2024 season, finishing with a 6-4 record and a 3.52 ERA, while also collecting 20 saves. This was especially impressive given that he missed the entire 2023 season recovering from an injury. His resilience in bouncing back and regaining his form has been a key storyline for the Mets. Now, Diaz feels more confident and stronger heading into the 2025 season.
“I got more freedom this year,” Diaz said, per SNY. “I feel really good because I’m able to work on whatever I want. I don’t have to ask trainers, coaches, anyone, ‘Can I do this?’ Now I go out there and play catch, do whatever I want and that’s it.” Diaz’s freedom to manage his preparation and work on his game without restrictions has him feeling better than ever.
Diaz’s journey to the Mets was not without its twists and turns. Before joining New York, he spent several seasons with the Seattle Mariners, where he established himself as one of the most dominant closers in the league. A two-time All-Star and a member of the All-MLB First Team in 2022, Diaz is no stranger to high expectations and pressure. His time with the Mariners helped him develop the mental toughness required to thrive in New York.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Diaz is focused on what he can control, which is his performance on the mound. He has always been a competitor, and he’s determined to give his best effort every time he takes the ball. The Mets’ bullpen will lean heavily on him to lock down games in the late innings, and Diaz is determined to deliver when his team needs him most.
Spring training for the Mets officially begins on February 22, and Diaz will be eager to get back to work. The team has a strong nucleus of talent, but it will be up to their key players to execute and produce when it matters most. As one of the most crucial pieces of the Mets’ puzzle, Diaz’s ability to perform at an elite level will go a long way in determining the team’s success in 2025.
With his opt-out looming and his mind focused on the game at hand, Edwin Diaz is ready to help the Mets reach their ultimate goal: a World Series championship. He’s embracing the challenges of the upcoming season with a clear mindset and a commitment to helping his team succeed. As the Mets aim to contend for a title, Diaz’s role in the bullpen will be vital to their postseason hopes.
As the 2025 campaign unfolds, all eyes will be on Diaz to see how he handles the pressure of a potential opt-out and how he performs on the mound. Regardless of what happens after the season, Diaz is ready to give his all for the Mets, and his dedication to the team’s success is clear. The upcoming year promises to be an exciting one for both the Mets and their star closer.