New York Mets Eyeing Former All-Star Closer To Replace Diaz

It's been a devastating day for the New York Mets' hopes—and their bullpen in particular. With the season-ending injury to closer Edwin Diaz, they're already considering replacements for the back end of the 'pen, and were on hand today for another throwing showcase by former two-time All-Star closer Zack Britton.

Hearing that Britton is throwing in a showcase for teams Thursday in Miami Gardens and the Mets are expected to attend. https://t.co/A06NbUxTNd
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) March 16, 2023

About eight teams in total were expected to attend the simulated game showcase by Britton, who's trying to make his way back into the majors after missing nearly all of 2022 following Tommy John surgery.

The 35-year-old Britton has battled injuries of late, and has only pitched 19 innings over the last two years, with a dreadful 6.16 ERA and 2.00 WHIP over that span.

New York Mets manager Buck Showalter, however, is more than familiar with Britton from managing him with the Baltimore Orioles for eight seasons. Britton was a two-time All-Star with those Orioles, and saved 135 games over a four-year span, slowed only by an injury in 2017. As recently as 2020 and 2019, Britton posted a 1.90 ERA across 80 innings in a set-up role with the New York Yankees.

Photo: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports