Despite Blown Save, Edwin Diaz Likely To Be Mets Primary Closer
4 years agoNew York Mets relief pitcher Edwin Diaz blew his second save of the season on Wednesday against the Marlins. Diaz was called on to get the final out in the eighth inning after Dellin Betances loaded the bases. Diaz promptly walked in the tying run before striking out Jonathan Villar to end the inning. Diaz was bailed out by a Michael Conforto two-run home run in the top half of the ninth inning and got the win in the Mets' 5-3 victory by working a clean bottom of the ninth, striking out the side. Following the game, manager Luis Rojas announced that Seth Lugo would be joining the Mets starting rotation indefinitely. This leaves Diaz, Betances, and Jeurys Familia as the remaining closer options in the Mets' bullpen. Based on performance, Diaz has been the most effective of the three, making him the primary closing option. In 10 2/3 innings pitched, Diaz has posted a 2.53 ERA with an insane 24 strikeouts. While his numbers are solid, including a ridiculous 20.3 strikeout rate, he has proven to be an ineffective closer for the Mets due to a 4.2 walk rate over nine innings and a 1.31 WHIP. He has one save against two blown saves. Diaz clearly gains fantasy value with Lugo's move to the rotation. That said, owners and Mets fans should prepare for a bumpy ride with Diaz likely serving as closer for the remainder of the year.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com