Edwin Díaz Puts Mets Return at 50-50 Amid Free Agency, Seeks Nine-Figure Deal

Edwin Díaz, the Mets' All-Star closer, recently opted out of his record five-year, $102 million deal and stated his chances of returning to the New York Mets are "50-50." Speaking ahead of the 2025 MLB Awards in Las Vegas, where he accepted the Trevor Hoffman NL Reliever of the Year Award, Díaz praised the organization but indicated he's not interested in a discount and is ready to explore other options. He is reportedly seeking another nine-figure deal, similar to his previous contract. While his 2025 season was exceptional, earning him All-Star honors, his 2024 saw a 3.52 ERA with seven blown saves and a shoulder impingement, and he missed 2023 with a torn patellar tendon. Ranked No. 11 on Yahoo Sports' free agent list and the top reliever available, Díaz is expected to draw significant interest from teams beyond the Mets, posing a challenge for Mets owner Steve Cohen.