Edwin Díaz’s Performance Crucial for Mets’ Postseason Success

As Edwin Díaz goes, so do the New York Mets. This phrase has echoed among the Mets’ media following the team’s season performance, highlighting the critical role Díaz plays despite the limited innings pitched by a closer in a season. His value is particularly emphasized when under postseason pressure.

The bullpen has been the Mets’ Achilles’ heel throughout this postseason, having surrendered at least one run in every game except one – the 8-4 victory in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series. According to Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) statistics, the Mets’ bullpen ranks as the third-worst among all playoff teams, overshadowed only by San Diego and Philadelphia, whose performances secured their failure to progress in the playoffs.

Within this struggling bullpen, Díaz remains a notable figure, albeit not without challenges. The bullpen’s reliance has been partly on Reed Garrett, who has posted a FIP of 1.37, barely making it into the 25th percentile of playoff relievers in 2024. Díaz and Ryne Stanek, with rankings of 31st and 32nd respectively, find themselves mid-placement in effectiveness among their peers.

Díaz has faced his share of challenges, notably his final regular-season game where he conceded three hits and two earned runs, costing the team a critical lead. However, a game-changing home run by Francisco Lindor offered Díaz a chance at redemption, which he seized, despite being credited with both a blown save and a win.

In the postseason, Díaz initially experienced turbulence, exemplified by his shaky performance in the series-clinching game against the Brewers, where he managed five outs but also walked two batters. His troubles continued in the Division Series against the Phillies, surrendering three runs in a lead-blown eighth inning.

Despite these difficulties, confidence from Mets manager Carlos Mendoza and Díaz’s potential return to form have provided optimism. During Game 2 against the Phillies, Díaz reverted to using his fastball – a stark contrast from his earlier slider reliance. This adjustment led to a much-needed return to form in Game 4, punctuated by strikeouts reminiscent of his peak prowess.

Díaz’s resurgence continued in Game 2 against the Dodgers. Facing a formidable lineup, Díaz effectively utilized his fastball, neutralizing threats like Mookie Betts, Teoscar Hernández, and Freddie Freeman. His final slider to Freeman sealed the game, but his fastball dominance stood out as a testament to his confidence and effectiveness.

Díaz’s quick tempo between pitches plays to his advantage, especially under pressure. With strengthened conviction in his fastball, he consistently challenged hitters and maintained an aggressive pace that kept both opponents and fans on edge.

While Díaz may not be the fulcrum of the Mets’ postseason hopes, his performance under pressure has been pivotal. This postseason has underscored the heightened expectations placed upon him and his potential to rise to the occasion, turning the spotlight into an opportunity for redemption and showcasing the indispensable depth he brings to the Mets bullpen.