It’s been no secret that the Los Angeles Dodgers plan on upgrading their bullpen this offseason.
Many had believed that Devin Williams would be the perfect fit as a backend high-leverage option from the right side. Williams had been linked to the Dodgers in each of the last two offseasons.
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Based on what transpired Monday afternoon, it appears as if the Dodgers will be back to the proverbial drawing board.
Williams reportedly agreed to a three-year deal with the New York Mets. Though it’s unclear as to whether he’ll be the team’s closer or setup man, it is apparent that one of the best available bullpen arms is now off the market.
The Missouri native had an excellent end to last season for the New York Yankees. When further factoring in his brilliance previously with the Milwaukee Brewers, it’s not an exaggeration to say that he’s one of the best relievers in the sport.
As for the Dodgers, Williams, Raisel Iglesias (Atlanta Braves), and Ryan Helsley (Baltimore Orioles) have quickly decided to head elsewhere.
The Mets certainly have deep enough pockets to re-up with Edwin Diaz. Diaz is the crown jewel of the reliever free agent crop, and has been a fixture in New York for years.
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The Dodgers traditionally have been very reticent in doling out multi-year deals to relievers. The Tanner Scott implosion this past year gives further credence to that line of thinking.
Having said that, if the Dodgers nabbed Diaz on a higher AAV/shorter-term deal, it would fill a massive hole. Diaz is one of the best closers in the game, and the Dodgers have not had that sort of lockdown arm at the backend of the bullpen perhaps since the prime Kenley Jansen days.
It will be very interesting to see how the next couple of weeks shake out. With a handful of these upper-crust arms already off the market, the others probably won’t be far behind.
Photo Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
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2 Responses
I think the Dodgers should slow down on buying talent and grow the young players they already have and let them show their value.
CORRECT! Sign or trade for a reliever and extra 2B-OF to short term contract and see which of the MANY talented prospects develop for 2027-28. Need to figure out where/how to utilize Rushing in addition to him giving Smith rest throughout season. Thankfully done with CT3, Barnes and Conforto so let’s no jam up roster with more baggage that will block younger players in coming years……