Díaz throws, remains 'on the right track'
This browser does not support the video element.
JUPITER, Fla. -- Mets closer Edwin Díaz pitched in his second Minor League game on Friday afternoon without any problems with his right knee.
According to manager Carlos Mendoza, Díaz quickly retired three hitters and then was asked to face a fourth batter before leaving the game.
“His [velocity] was good. He executed some good sliders. So another good step in the right direction,” Mendoza said.
The Mets must see how Díaz bounces back from Friday’s outing. If things go well, Díaz could play in an exhibition game on Monday or Tuesday against the Marlins or Nationals, respectively.
Diaz hasn’t appeared in a Major League game since the Mets were in the postseason in 2022. That year, Díaz had a season to remember, saving 32 games with a 1.31 ERA and winning the Trevor Hoffman Award as the best reliever in the National League.
This browser does not support the video element.
Díaz didn’t play at all last year after suffering a complete right patellar tendon tear during the World Baseball Classic on March 16. Díaz’s absence hurt the Mets’ bullpen, which went 25-36 with a 4.48 ERA and 34 saves in 52 opportunities.
“[Díaz] means a lot. … In the ninth inning when you have a lead, you feel really good about your chances,” Mendoza said. “He changes the whole game -- the way you manage your bullpen. How aggressive are you going to be in those middle innings knowing that you have him ready to go in the ninth? I know he was a big loss for this team last year, but we are excited he is back healthy and on the right track.”