The New York Mets have reportedly reached an agreement with reliever Luke Weaver on a two-year contract valued at $22 million. This acquisition aims to bolster the Mets' bullpen following the departure of their star closer, Edwin Diaz, to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Weaver Joins Mets' Revamped Bullpen
Weaver's move to the Mets signifies a continuation of the trend of players transitioning from the Yankees to their cross-town rivals. He joins Devin Williams, who also recently made the switch, further solidifying the Mets' relief pitching options. Other notable names who have recently moved from the Yankees to the Mets include outfielder Juan Soto, right-hander Clay Holmes, and manager Carlos Mendoza.
Weaver, at 32 years old, experienced a resurgence as a reliever during his time with the Yankees. After struggling to find consistency as a starter earlier in his career, he thrived in a relief role, posting a 3.21 ERA in 126 appearances over the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
This is a stark contrast to his previous 5.14 ERA across 144 games (106 starts) with six different teams. The Yankees initially acquired Weaver off waivers from the Seattle Mariners in September 2023.
Weaver's Performance and Role
Initially, Weaver capitalized on strong starts with the Yankees to secure a one-year, $2 million contract for 2024. He transitioned to the bullpen, contributing as a multi-inning pitcher, setup man, and even closer during the Yankees' World Series campaign.
However, Weaver's season took a turn after a hamstring injury sidelined him for three weeks. Before the injury, he had a stellar 1.05 ERA in 24 appearances, but his ERA jumped to 5.31 in 40 games after his return.
His struggles extended into the postseason, where he allowed five runs without recording an out in his first two ALDS appearances against the Toronto Blue Jays. Weaver attributed his poor performance to discomfort with mechanical adjustments made late in the season.
Looking ahead, Devin Williams is projected to assume the closer role for the Mets, with Weaver expected to play a crucial role in setting up the ninth inning. Williams signed a three-year, $51 million contract with the Mets the previous month after spending one season with the Yankees.
In addition to Weaver and Williams, the Mets have also claimed right-hander Cooper Criswell off waivers from the Boston Red Sox, adding depth to both their starting rotation and bullpen.
FAQs
Why did the Mets sign Luke Weaver?
The Mets signed Luke Weaver to a two-year, $22 million deal to strengthen their bullpen, especially after Edwin Diaz's departure to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Weaver's experience as a reliever, particularly his success with the Yankees, makes him a valuable addition.
What role is Luke Weaver expected to play for the Mets?
Luke Weaver is projected to be a key setup man for the Mets, pitching before the closer in the ninth inning. Devin Williams is expected to assume the closer role, with Weaver playing a crucial role in setting him up.
How did Luke Weaver perform with the Yankees?
Luke Weaver initially thrived as a reliever for the Yankees, posting a 3.21 ERA over the 2024 and 2025 seasons. However, his performance dipped after a hamstring injury, impacting his effectiveness in the latter part of the season and into the postseason.
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