New York Yankees starting pitcher Carlos Rodon (55) pitches against the Toronto Blue Jays (Image via Imagn) The New York Yankees have entered the offseason with a clear priority: securing a dominant late-inning force capable of stabilizing a bullpen that faltered at key moments in 2025. As the market unfolds, no reliever carries more intrigue – or star power – than Edwin Díaz, the three-time All-Star who opted out of the remaining two years and $38 million on his Mets contract. With a 1.63 ERA, 98 strikeouts, and 28 saves in 2025, he immediately became one of the most coveted arms available.Díaz’s decision to test free agency has put multiple teams on alert, but the New York Yankees have emerged as one of the most aggressive suitors. Their front office has honed in on bullpen upgrades after inconsistency forced them into a Wild Card start last season. With recent additions like Camilo Doval and David Bednar, New York now sees Díaz as the potential finishing piece to assemble a true late-inning powerhouse.
How a Deal Could Take Shape
Because Díaz is a free agent, the New York Yankees’ path is expected to be a direct signing rather than a trade. The Mets issued him a $22 million qualifying offer, which guarantees them draft pick compensation if he signs elsewhere. Any team pursuing him – New York included – would therefore sacrifice draft capital while negotiating a new deal projected at four to five years and likely exceeding $100 million. Such a contract would surpass Josh Hader’s annual value and set a new standard for relievers. The Yankees, led by Brian Cashman, believe Díaz’s elite fastball-slider mix and closing experience perfectly align with their postseason ambitions.
Benefits for the New York Yankees, Díaz, and the Mets
New York Mets pitcher Edwin Díaz (39) with New York Mets hitter Starling Marte (6) (Image via Imagn)
For the New York Yankees, adding Díaz brings an immediate upgrade to a shaky bullpen and transforms close games into more secure wins. His strikeout dominance and proven closing ability would stabilize the late innings and significantly boost playoff reliability. For Díaz, the move presents both financial reward and the opportunity to pitch for a franchise with championship potential and high visibility. Meanwhile, the Mets benefit from draft pick compensation and payroll flexibility, allowing them to retool their bullpen even if they lose one of baseball’s premier relievers.
Pros and Cons of the Move
Statistical Snapshot
At 29, Díaz remains in his physical prime, and his profile fits exactly what the Yankees lacked in 2025: a reliable, dominant finisher capable of protecting late leads.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Seattle Mariners could land $24.28 million superstar to bolster squad and improve title odds ahead of Offseason
Who Ultimately Wins?
The New York Yankees stand to gain the most, as Díaz unlocks a new ceiling for their bullpen and strengthens their postseason path. Díaz himself benefits financially and competitively, and while the Mets face losing a top reliever, they gain draft capital and spending flexibility. In a market built around elite bullpen arms commanding historic contracts, Díaz has become the centerpiece of the 2025-26 offseason—and the Yankees are positioned as one of the strongest contenders to land him.