Mets Announce Trade After Edwin Diaz News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Nov 4, 2025 2:43 PM ET

The New York Mets failed to make the postseason in 2025, just one year after reaching the National League Championship Series. A huge reason for the disappointing season was New York’s pitching staff. The Mets finished with a team-wide ERA of 4.03 despite ranking in the top 10 in runs scored.

There were still bright spots, particularly right-hander Edwin Diaz, who has operated as the team’s closing pitcher since 2019. The 31-year-old reliever continued to dominate over 62 appearances for New York, posting a 1.63 ERA, striking out 98 batters and collecting 28 saves. Diaz earned the third All-Star selection of his career for his efforts in the first half.

New York Mets relief pitcher Edwin Diaz (39)© Rhona Wise-Imagn Images

As the Mets retool the roster for 2026, the team announced Diaz has made an impactful decision to enter unrestricted free agency. On Tuesday, he opted out of the final two years of his five-year, $102 million contract.

“INF Pete Alonso and RHP Edwin Diaz have declined their player options and have become free agents,” the Mets posted, also confirming that first baseman Pete Alonso has entered free agency. Diaz is likely seeking a longer, more lucrative deal, and a return to the Mets remains a possibility.

New York wasted no time bolstering the bullpen hours later in a subsequent move. They announced a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, acquiring right-handed reliever Joey Gerber for cash considerations. “We have acquired RHP Joey Gerber from Tampa Bay in exchange for cash considerations,” the Mets wrote.

We have made the following roster moves. pic.twitter.com/XOkbIwBuK7
— New York Mets (@Mets) November 4, 2025

Gerber will not be a reliable replacement for Diaz, but he does help the bullpen depth and could fill innings at the big-league level if Diaz decides to go elsewhere. Gerber appeared in two games for Tampa in 2025, allowing one run through 4 1/3 innings while striking out four batters. He will likely compete for a spot in the bullpen during spring training.

Diaz’s departure leaves a major void at the back end of the Mets’ bullpen, and the front office is expected to explore multiple avenues to address it if he does not return. Internal options could see expanded roles, but New York is also expected to pursue veteran relievers in free agency. With Alonso also entering the open market, the Mets face a pivotal offseason that could reshape the roster and influence the direction of the franchise heading into 2026.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: