Texas Rangers Have Reported Interest in Edwin Diaz
The Rangers have been reported to have some interest in Mets‘ closer Edwin Diaz, who is slated to be a free agent this upcoming offseason.
Diaz is an outstanding talent, and he fits a need for the Rangers, so it seems like a slam-dunk addition for them.
However, there are both pros and cons.
Pros
Diaz posted a 1.63 ERA in 62 games with the Mets, with 13.3 strikeouts per nine and an All-Star appearance. He converted 28 of 31 saves.
The Rangers had a revolving door at closer last year, made up of Robert Garcia, Luke Jackson, Shawn Armstrong, and Phil Maton. Jackson, Garcia, and Armstrong were all tied at the lead with nine. Together, the four of them had 30 combined saves, barely beating out Diaz.
He would be the workhorse closer the Rangers could have long-term, which they have not had for a while. The bullpen did rank in the top five last year in ERA, but it could get better if they get Diaz to be their headliner.
There really isn’t a lot to say about the pros, as Diaz’s stats speak for themselves, and the need for a closer for the Rangers is noted.
Cons
The con for signing Diaz is the money. Chris Young has mentioned that the team is looking to cut payroll, and bringing in Diaz will do the exact opposite.
According to insiders, Diaz is seeking a contract worth over $100 million. That is a hefty contract and one that I struggle to see the Rangers giving out.
They also have a couple of bullpen arms that are going to be free agents, so signing Diaz will not allow the Rangers to bring them back. It would be difficult for them to fill out their bullpen with the signing of Diaz.
Verdict
I don’t really see the Rangers signing Diaz at that price.
The Rangers are looking to cut payroll and already have an expensive roster.
I think that they will bring back a couple of bullpen arms, and they will look to pick up some under-the-radar arms.
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