MLB Insider Predicts New York Mets Will Trade for This Closer
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The Mets have made it clear that they intend to replace closer Edwin Diaz, who underwent surgery for a torn patellar tendon in his right knee, with an internal option, presumably David Robertson.
However, ESPN insider David Schoenfield predicts that they will trade for Diaz's replacement.
“...David Bednar will be the closer when the Mets reach the postseason, after he comes over in a trade with the Pirates.”
While it appears that the Mets will go with what they have to start the season, they could trade for Bednar or another closer at the trade deadline.
Bednar was an All-Star for the Pirates last season, posting a 1.3 bWAR, 2.61 ERA, 19 saves and 69 strikeouts across 51.2 innings.
Bednar first broke out for Pittsburgh in 2021, with a 2.23 ERA, 2.69 FIP, 0.973 WHIP and 77 strikeouts in 60.2 innings.
But what might hold this trade up is the price tag. Bednar is under team control for four more years, not reaching free agency until 2027.
Mets owner Steve Cohen told The New York Post last week that the club doesn't want to overreact or overpay for a closer on the market.
They would likely have to overpay for Bednar given he is under cheap team control for the next four years.
But if the Mets are in serious contention at the deadline and still in need of a closer, Bednar is a viable option to upgrade the backend of their bullpen.
And at least one MLB insider believes the Mets will trade for Bednar and that he will be their closer in the postseason.
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