The New York Mets and Team Puerto Rico were dealt a tough blow on Wednesday night.
After Puerto Rico officially eliminated the Dominican Republic to advance to the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic, closer Edwin Diaz collapsed to the ground due to an apparent leg injury.
The reigning National League Reliever of the Year was ultimately unable to put any weight on his right leg and had to be taken off the field on a wheelchair.
The Mets will be without their star closer for quite some time.
However, according to Mets writer Mike Puma, there may be a fallback option waiting in the wings.
Free agent left-hander Zack Britton will be throwing a showcase on Thursday in Miami Gardens and the Mets are expected to attend the showcase.
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
This might be a perfect solution for the Mets.
Britton was once a member of the Baltimore Orioles and pitched for the team while Buck Showalter was at the helm as manager, so the two have a rapport with one another and could potentially reunite.
The veteran lefty was often used as a closer during his time in Baltimore as well.
He spent the 2022 season with the New York Yankees, but missed a significant amount of time recovering from injuries.
In fact, the 35-year-old was limited to just three appearances and posted an abysmal 13.50 ERA.
However, if healthy, Britton could prove to be an anchor at the back end of a bullpen.
In the interim, the Mets have options such as Adam Ottavino who could be used in the closer’s role.
Britton would give them another experienced veteran who could fill the role until Diaz returns, if he is able to come back from this injury at any point in the season.
NEXT: Mets Owner Comments On The Edwin Diaz News
