Blue Jays met with free agent closer Edwin Diaz, targeting other high-leverage relievers
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The Toronto Blue Jays mission to shore up their bullpen has already begun with a meeting with top free agent closer Edwin Diaz.
According to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, the Blue Jays have already met with the top free agent closer.
SNY has also reiterated the same report on the elite closer.
The Blue Jays have reportedly met with Edwin Diaz's agents
The New York Post is concerned about Diaz's meeting with the Blue Jays, considered a threat to a reunion with the Mets.
Blue Jays could emerge as threat to Mets' Edwin Diaz reunion hopes
Toronto currently has Jeff Hoffman installed at closer, though recent reports indicated that he is open and willing to move to a set-up man position.
While Hoffman performed well at times - his 33 saves was top 5 in the American League - he had seven blown saves and also surrendered more than his fair share of home runs, leading to a 9-7 record with a 4.37 ERA, not exactly numbers you want from a closer.
Diaz would represent a significant upgrade. While the three-time All-Star only had 28 saves while serving as the anchor to the New York Mets bullpen, his ERA was a muc more closer-like 1.63.
He struck 98 batters in 66.1 innings and his WHIP was under 1.00. All numbers that were better than Hoffman.
Diaz likely to receive plenty of offers, may to return to Queens
Edwin Diaz notes, per Ken Rosenthal:
- Diaz says his return to the Mets is «50-50.»
- Seeking a deal similar to 5/$102M.
- Blue Jays met with his agents.
- Toronto is targeting high-leverage relief and could move Hoffman to the 8th.
- Diaz says his return to the Mets is «50-50.»
- Seeking a deal similar to 5/$102M.
- Blue Jays met with his agents.
- Toronto is targeting high-leverage relief and could move Hoffman to the 8th.
Although Diaz signed a five year contract with the Mets three seasons ago, it contained an opt-out clause, which Diaz triggered and caused him to become a free agent for the first time in his career.
Hoffman's fee was three years and $33MM; Toronto would likely need to triple that to land Diaz.
It would be a hefty price tag considering they are trying to re-sign Bo Bichette and have also been connected to some international players.
Blue Jays are definitely targeting other high-leverage closers as well
The Blue Jays may circle back to Ryan Helsley, who they were interested in at the deadline, and earlier connected to Pete Fairbanks.
As the past couple of off seasons have shown however, Rogers is willing to spend. The question is whether they will spend on Diaz.
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