The New York Mets and manager Mickey Callaway have drawn a ton of criticism during what has been a disappointing 2019 season.
Chief among them is the struggles of former All-Star closer Edwin Diaz after he was acquired from the Seattle Mariners in a blockbuster trade this past winter.
In talking about Diaz’s struggles in New York, Callaway had one of the most cringe-worthy quotes we’ve seen from a manager in some time.
“That’s a tough one because you’ve got to get to the ninth,” Callaway said when asked if he’s thought of removing Diaz from the closer role, via Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.
Closers getting in consistent work is a big deal. It doesn’t happen often on a losing team. Then again, it’s the manager’s responsibility to find room for said closer even if it’s not a game-saving opportunity. Apparently, Callaway is calling himself out here.
Diaz has pitched to a 0-4 record with a 8.02 ERA and five blown saves since the end of May. He’s also apparently on the trade block leading to Wednesday’s deadline. For the sake of Diaz’s career, maybe we should all hope he’s moved.