Edwin Diaz opt-out complicates Mets' offseason

Fresh off a brutal late-season collapse, the Mets knew they would have an eventful offseason this year.

Reliever Edwin Diaz is complicating the Mets' plans by opting out of his contract, according to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal. Diaz had two years remaining on his contract, along with a club option for the 2028 season. He would have earned about $15 million for each of the next two seasons and $17 million in 2028 had he not opted out.

The move isn't a surprise as Diaz was by far the Mets' best bullpen option this past season, earning a third All-Star appearance and pitching to a sparkling 1.63 ERA over 66.1 innings pitched. The Mets will likely prioritize re-signing Diaz and Pete Alonso, who said he would opt out of his contract in September.

Edwin Diaz is best in shaky class of Mets free-agent relievers 

With reliever A.J. Minter opting in to next season's contract at $11 million, the Mets get one of their stronger bullpen arms back at a reasonable salary next year. Minter suffered a torn lat muscle and pitched his last game of the season on April 26. The Mets have six other relievers hitting free agency, but none of them will command the years and salary of Diaz.

Trade-deadline acquisition Ryan Helsley was an abject disaster with the Mets, but they could bring him back if he agrees to sign on the cheap. Helsley gave up 20 runs in 20 innings with the Mets one season after leading the National League with 49 saves for the Cardinals.

The Mets will likely let Ryne Stanek (4-6, 5.30 ERA) and Gregory Soto (1-5, 4.18 ERA) walk without fanfare. Brooks Raley (3-1, 2.45 ERA) and Tyler Rogers (4-6, 1.98 ERA) were adequate bullpen pieces. Raley has a one-year team option worth $4.75 million. Rogers will turn 35 before next season, reducing the chances that a team will offer him a long-term deal. Drew Smith is recovering from Tommy John surgery and did not pitch in 2025.