Story perspectives

Mets Offer $22M to Díaz; Closer Expected to Decline

11/7/2025

Summary

Story summary

New York Mets issued a $22.05 million qualifying offer to closer Edwin Díaz, who is likely to decline.
Díaz, 31, opted out of the final two years of his contract, valued at nearly $33 million.
Díaz missed 2023 with a knee injury, then posted a 1.63 ERA and 28 saves in 2025.
If Díaz signs elsewhere, the Mets would receive a compensatory draft pick.
Other Mets relievers are entering free agency.

History

Historical Context

Major League Baseball's free agency began in 1976, following the pivotal Seitz decision that dismantled the reserve clause, which had bound players to their teams indefinitely. This shift allowed players like Edwin Díaz to negotiate contracts independently, reflecting a significant change in player rights and team strategies. The New York Mets' potential $22.05 million offer to Díaz illustrates the evolving market dynamics in professional baseball.

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Story summary

New York Mets issued a $22.05 million qualifying offer to closer Edwin Díaz, who is likely to decline.
Díaz, 31, opted out of the final two years of his contract, valued at nearly $33 million.
Díaz missed 2023 with a knee injury, then posted a 1.63 ERA and 28 saves in 2025.
If Díaz signs elsewhere, the Mets would receive a compensatory draft pick.
Other Mets relievers are entering free agency.

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