Jake Diekman Free Agency: Mets rope in veteran reliever following strong season with Rays

The New York Mets have reportedly signed veteran free agent reliever Jake Diekman to fortify their bullpen on Thursday.

It is a busy day for the Mets fans as the signing comes after a reported one-year deal for Japanese pitcher Shintaro Fujinami earlier today. The two experienced additions will help the Mets in sorting their bullpen issues ahead of spring training later this month.

MLB insider Andy Martino was first to report the news with the Mets understood to be interested in the lefty reliever, per reports earlier this week. The 37-year-old is coming off a strong season for the Tampa Bay Rays.

He has reportedly signed a one-year deal with the Mets, who have been busy in the offseason, for around $4 million with a vesting option of another year.

"The Mets are in agreement with LH reliever Jake Diekman, pending physical."

Although the veteran pitcher made a shaky start to 2023 after a few woeful outings for the Chicago White Sox, he improved his game significantly after signing for the Rays.

"They're getting Diekman after the Rays already sprinkled their magic dust on him, so that's always good"

Mets could be done with their pitching additions in the offseason

The Mets have added significant arms to their pitching staff in the offseason under the new president of baseball operations David Stearns.

Although they missed out on coveted Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who signed a record-breaking deal with the Dodgers last year, the Mets have been able to solidify their pitching with some shrewd additions. After Stearns' arrival, the team has added Luis Severino, Sean Manaea, and Adrian Houser, three starting pitchers.

The latest deal for the veteran reliever seemingly got fast-tracked in the last 24 hours after the Stearns' team missed out on signing Wandy Peralta who rejected their reported offer for a four-year $16.5 million deal including three opt-outs for the San Diego Padres.