The New York Mets have moved to strengthen their pitching staff by agreeing a two-year, $22million deal with reliever Luke Weaver. The right-hander joins after leaving their city rivals, the New York Yankees.
A Familiar Path from the Bronx
Weaver follows an identical path to new Mets closer Devin Williams, who also swapped the Bronx for Queens this offseason. Upon arriving at Citi Field, Weaver will reunite with several former teammates. He will join star outfielder Juan Soto, who is entering the second year of his monumental 15-year, $765million contract with the franchise. Pitcher Clay Holmes, another ex-Yankee, is also on the roster.
A Rocky Road for the Mets' Rebuild
This signing comes during a challenging period for the Mets organisation. Despite operating with one of baseball's largest payrolls, the team failed to reach the playoffs in 2025. The subsequent offseason has seen significant upheaval, sparking concern among the fanbase.
In a surprising trade, veteran outfielder Brandon Nimmo was sent to the Texas Rangers in exchange for second baseman Marcus Semien. More jarring for supporters was the departure of homegrown star Pete Alonso. The slugging first baseman entered free agency and subsequently signed with the Baltimore Orioles.
The bullpen, in particular, has undergone a major transformation. The acquisition of Devin Williams was necessitated by the exit of established closer Edwin Diaz. Diaz, a fan favourite, departed to sign a lucrative three-year, $50million contract with the reigning World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Fan Reaction and Looking Ahead
The combined loss of cornerstone players Diaz and Alonso has caused considerable uproar within segments of the Mets' loyal support. The signing of Luke Weaver represents a step in the team's efforts to reconfigure its roster, but it remains part of a broader and uncertain rebuild. The pressure will be on the front office to demonstrate that this new direction can translate into on-field success and placate a disgruntled fanbase.
