MLB Rumors: Mets, Jake Diekman Agree to 1-Year, $4M Contract in Free Agency

The New York Mets added more high-quality depth to their bullpen ahead of pitchers and catchers reporting to spring training on Feb. 14.

According to SNY's Andy Martino, Jake Diekman and the Mets agreed to terms on a contract Friday. MLB.com's Anthony DiComo reported Diekman's deal is worth $4 million and includes a vesting option for 2025.

While their moves haven't been as splashy this offseason as they were last year, the Mets have been very active in free agency. Luis Severino and Sean Manaea were brought in to add depth to the starting rotation.

Michael Tonkin and Jorge López were signed in December to give new manager Carlos Mendoza more versatility in the bullpen.

Diekman will also be part of that versatile relief corps. He could provide insurance if Edwin Díaz needs time getting his feet back under him after missing all of 2023 due to a torn patellar tendon in his right knee.

Mendoza told reporters at the winter meetings the expectation is that Díaz will be "fully healthy" when this season begins. The 29-year-old was arguably the best closer in MLB two years ago when he posted a 1.31 ERA and 118 strikeouts in 62 innings.

Diekman doesn't have a ton of experience in a ninth-inning role, but he did record a career-high seven saves in 2021 with the Oakland Athletics.

Last season was a tale of two teams for Diekman. He was dreadful in 13 appearances for the Chicago White Sox with a 7.94 ERA and 2.12 WHIP before being released in May.

After signing with the Rays, Diekman completely turned things around. He was a dominant setup man with a 2.18 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 53 strikeouts in 45.1 innings.

Brooks Raley is the only lefty reliever currently under contract to the Mets.

The Mets have a lot of question marks in their starting rotation behind Kodai Senga, so they will need a deep collection of relievers to make it through the season.