Former Mets All-Star closer predicted to lead NL in saves with Dodgers During the 2026 MLB offseason, the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets were closely tied to several top free agents, with their competition for Kyle Tucker culminating in a $240 million, four-year deal for the Dodgers. Another significant move involved the departure of an All-Star closer from the Mets to the Dodgers, where he signed a three-year contract worth over $60 million. MLB.com’s Manny Randhawa noted that 57 of his staff members predicted the new Dodgers closer, Edwin Diaz, would finish the season with the most saves in the National League. This outcome would be a setback for the Mets, who lost a key reliever, but a major advantage for the Dodgers, who have struggled with bullpen depth in recent years. Diaz, a 32-year-old reliever, has been among the league’s best closers over the past few seasons. In 2025, he posted a 1.63 ERA with a 38% strikeout rate while saving 28 games for the Mets. His performance last year solidified his reputation as a reliable late-inning option, though his save total was lower than in previous seasons. In 2024, Diaz recorded 20 saves in 54 games with a 3.52 ERA, a decline from his 2022 season, when he had a 1.31 ERA and 32 saves in 61 appearances. His best season came in 2018 with the Seattle Mariners, where he saved 57 games with a 1.96 ERA in 73 games. Now with the Dodgers, Diaz is expected to serve as the full-time closer, a role that aligns with his strengths. The team’s recent struggles in the bullpen have created a need for a dependable closer, and Diaz’s track record suggests he could thrive in that position. If he consistently performs as a shutdown reliever for the Dodgers in 2026, leading the National League in saves would be a logical outcome.#los_angeles_dodgers #new_york_mets #mlb_com #edwin_diaz #kyle_tucker
Nico Hoerner Signs Six-Year Contract Extension with Cubs The Chicago Cubs have finalized a long-term contract extension with second baseman Nico Hoerner, securing his services through the 2032 season. The deal, which is pending a physical examination, was confirmed through a source shared with MLB.com’s Jordan Bastian. Hoerner, who was set to become a free agent following the 2025 season, will now remain with the Cubs for the next six years. Hoerner’s performance in 2025 marked his most productive season to date. The 28-year-old recorded a career-high 114 OPS+ over 649 plate appearances, showcasing his offensive growth. He also earned his second Gold Glove Award, recognizing his elite defensive skills at second base. His defensive metrics further highlighted his value, as he led all second basemen in 2025 with 14 outs above average. Beyond his defensive prowess, Hoerner’s all-around contributions were significant. He posted a 6.2 Baseball-Reference WAR in 2025, tying him with the Mets’ Juan Soto for seventh among position players. This marks a substantial leap from his earlier career, reflecting his development into a key offensive and defensive asset for the Cubs. Hoerner’s journey with the Cubs began in 2018 when he was selected in the first round. After signing a three-year extension in 2023, he has evolved into a leader within the team’s clubhouse. His work ethic and leadership qualities have been instrumental in shaping the team’s culture, both on and off the field. The Cubs’ decision to extend Hoerner comes alongside another major contract move. On the same day, the team announced a six-year extension for center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, ensuring his presence through the 2032 season. These signings underscore the Cubs’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the foreseeable future.#chicago_cubs #nico_hoerner #mlb_com #jordan_bastian #pete_crow_armstrong
Tommy Pham, Mets Agree to Minor League Deal The New York Mets have signed veteran outfielder Tommy Pham to a Minor League deal, adding experienced depth to their roster, according to a source shared with MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand. The team has not officially confirmed the agreement. Pham’s contract with the Mets includes a $2.5 million guarantee if he reaches the Major Leagues, with potential additional incentives pushing the total to $3.1 million. The deal also features an opt-out clause set for April 25. Pham is expected to contribute as a reliable outfield option following the injury of Mike Tauchman, who tore his meniscus in his left knee during Spring Training. The 38-year-old outfielder previously spent 79 games with the Mets in 2023, posting an .820 OPS with 10 home runs before being traded to Arizona in July. Despite his age and recent performance, Pham remains a viable addition. In 2025, he hit .245/.330/.370 with 10 home runs for the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, advanced metrics suggest he may have been slightly unlucky. His expected batting average was 13 points higher, and his expected slugging percentage was 40 points higher than his actual output. Pham’s hard-hit rate of 47.2% ranked in the 76th percentile among qualified hitters, a significant improvement from his 42.7% rate in 2024. His plate discipline also showed progress, with a 19.9% chase rate in the top 5% of the game, a 20.9% strikeout rate (his lowest since 2019), and an 11.1% walk rate (81st percentile), his highest since 2021. Defensively, Pham’s range in the outfield was below average, with a -3 Outs Above Average rating from Statcast. However, he contributed +5 defensive runs saved in left field for Pittsburgh. Pham’s postseason experience adds value to his profile. In 37 career playoff games, he has a .315/.331/.#new_york_mets #tommy_pham #mlb_com #statcast #american_league_division_series
