Mets Eye “Super Bullpen” With Devin Williams, Pursuit of Edwin Diaz

Last offseason, the New York Mets fell short of expectations, and a shaky bullpen played a major role in their underperformance. Recognizing the need for a stronger late-inning group, the team made a bold move by signing elite reliever Devin Williams. The acquisition reflects a clear intent to restore confidence in New York’s bullpen while keeping the door open for a reunion with NL Reliever of the Year Edwin Diaz.

Former Mets GM Jim Duquette discussed the team’s bullpen plans on MLB Network Radio, noting that Diaz “really enjoyed his time in Queens” and had grown attached to the city and the routine, even taking public transit to Citi Field daily. Duquette also praised the front office dynamic, pointing to David Stearns’ role in courting Diaz and the team’s ongoing commitment to re-signing him.

Most notably, Duquette said, “I think the Mets are trying to build a super bullpen,” a statement that immediately captured fan attention. The quote underscored the Mets’ broader vision of constructing a late-inning staff capable of dominating games and supporting the team’s larger competitive goals.

With Williams now in the fold and Diaz still a potential target, the Mets’ bullpen strategy is becoming clearer. The team appears focused on depth, elite strikeout ability, and situational flexibility to stabilize close games and strengthen their October outlook.

1. Devin Williams Brings Elite Late-Inning Talent

Devin Williams arrives in New York as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers. Known for his swing-and-miss stuff and calm poise in high-pressure situations, Williams immediately upgrades the Mets’ ninth-inning outlook. His presence alone allows the team to handle late-game situations with greater confidence, reducing reliance on overworked starters or inexperienced relievers. Williams’ elite strikeout ability makes him a potential closer on his own, but his value multiplies when paired with other high-end arms. The signing also signals a shift in philosophy. Instead of relying solely on one dominant closer, the Mets are emphasizing depth and versatility, creating multiple late-inning options that can change the complexion of a game. By locking in Williams, New York has laid the foundation for a bullpen that can control momentum, maintain leads, and act as a true weapon against opposing lineups.

2. Edwin Diaz: The Missing Piece

Edwin Diaz remains one of the most coveted relievers on the market, and reuniting with him would elevate the Mets bullpen to elite status. Diaz, a former NL Reliever of the Year, posted impressive numbers in his six years with New York, including a career-best 1.63 ERA and nearly 100 strikeouts in 62 appearances during 2025. Diaz’s familiarity with the organization and positive relationship with the city make him a natural fit for a reunion. Reports indicate that he valued his time in Queens, enjoyed the commute to Citi Field, and appreciated the team culture, making a return feasible if the Mets aggressively pursue him. Pairing Diaz with Williams creates a late-inning tandem few teams could match. Diaz could close games while Williams handles the eighth inning, providing matchup flexibility, strikeout dominance, and a psychological edge over opponents. This potential duo represents more than just talent—it signals a shift in identity for the Mets, transforming the bullpen from a weakness into a strategic advantage capable of impacting playoff success.

3. A Vision for a Super Bullpen

The Mets’ front office, led by David Stearns, appears committed to building a bullpen that can close games, flip momentum, and fuel October success. Williams’ signing is the first tangible step in this vision, establishing a foundation of elite talent and depth. Even with rotation questions still lingering, a dominant bullpen can stabilize late innings and provide insurance in high-leverage situations. By focusing on layered talent and multiple options, the Mets are positioning themselves for sustainable success rather than relying on a single closer. Fan enthusiasm reflects this shift in strategy, as the bullpen’s evolving identity provides hope for a new era in Queens. If Diaz returns, the Mets would boast one of the most feared late-inning corps in the league. The combination of Williams and Diaz would represent not just elite talent, but a deliberate, championship-oriented approach to constructing a bullpen capable of defining games in critical moments.