The New York Mets could be looking to upgrade their bullpen this offseason now that they cannot go after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. They could target a two-time All-Star.
The Mets do not necessarily need a closer, but Edwin Díaz can opt out of his five-year, $102 million deal after the season. If that happens, the Mets could target Ryan Helsley in free agency. FanSided's Brian Germinaro urged the Mets to sign Helsley to a four-year, $68 million deal with the money they saved from not going after Guerrero.
"Having a strong bullpen is one of the most important aspects of a contending team," wrote Germinaro. "With starters not going long into games, having good relievers who can hold the other team off the board is very important. Plus, for years, Mets fans have been scared by many late-game bullpen collapses. So, using some of the Guerrero Jr. money on an elite reliever is a must. Ryan Helsely is the perfect guy to fill that role as one of the reliable arms out of the pen."
Helsley is off to a rough start this season, but he is a two-time All-Star and led baseball in saves last season. Even if Díaz stays, the Mets could use Helsley as a set-up man or leverage reliever.
"In his seven big league seasons, he pitched to a 2.66 ERA over 267.2 innings, with 322 strikeouts to 111 walks, a 1.106 WHIP, and a 155 ERA+. This can be someone that (Carlos) Mendoza can go to in tight spots to get the big out needed," wrote Germinaro. "Plus it solidifies the pen with the uncertain future of Edwin Diaz and AJ Minter."
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A bullpen that features Helsley and Díaz would give the Mets an elite combination at the end of games. The St. Louis Cardinals are seemingly headed for a rebuild, and re-signing Helsley may not be in the cards.
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