MLB trade rumors: Atlanta Braves predicted to bag $100 million New York Mets closer to bolster squad and improve title odds

The Atlanta Braves could be gearing up for one of the most daring moves of the offseason - a potential bid to land New York Mets closer Edwin Díaz. With a $102 million deal and 258 career saves to his name, Díaz represents both elite talent and a symbolic strike against a fierce division rival.

If the hard-throwing right-hander opts out of his contract, Atlanta might see a rare opportunity to strengthen its bullpen while simultaneously delivering a gut punch to the Mets, a move that could redefine the balance of power in the NL East.Before any blockbuster deal takes place, however, the Braves must first address some pressing offseason matters. Their search for a new manager remains the top priority, but the conversation will soon shift to roster construction - particularly the bullpen.

The fate of Raisel Iglesias looms large, as his pending free agency could determine whether the Braves re-sign a familiar arm or make a stunning run at Díaz, a pitcher capable of turning close games into certain victories.

Atlanta Braves Facing Key Offseason Decisions

The Atlanta Braves enter the offseason with several crucial questions, starting with their managerial search. While that remains their top priority, roster construction - especially the bullpen - will soon take center stage.

The future of current closer Raisel Iglesias is particularly uncertain.As SI’s Harrison Smajovits noted, “Iglesias has actually pitched himself back into the conversation for sticking around. He might have gotten that chance due to poor performance putting a dent in his trade stock, but he showed, regardless, that he’s as good as he’s ever been.” (H/t: Sporting News)

Despite a midseason slump, Iglesias’ strong finish reignited his value.

However, Atlanta’s front office, led by Alex Anthopoulos, typically extends key players before free agency. Iglesias’ current situation complicates that approach.

Why Iglesias Might Leave Atlanta

According to FanSided’s Christopher Kline, “We can’t be sure that Iglesias’ going rate won’t balloon to a point that makes Anthopoulos squeamish. The Atlanta Braves typically lock up their guys ahead of time to avoid the pricey competition of the open market, so the fact that Iglesias is hitting free agency - even after surviving the trade deadline, against all odds - does not bode especially well for the Braves’ odds of keeping him.

”If Iglesias commands a hefty market price, Atlanta may decide to move on rather than engage in a bidding war. That’s where Díaz enters the picture.

Edwin Díaz: The Game-Changing Option

Díaz, who returned to form in 2025 after an injury-plagued 2024, recorded a stellar 1.63 ERA in 62 appearances. His combination of velocity and control makes him one of MLB’s most dominant relievers when healthy.HTHB’s Eric Cole suggested the Atlanta Braves could swing big: “Finally, we come to the bullpen.

A reunion with Raisel Iglesias is possible, but going after Edwin Diaz and giving Mets fans nightmares sounds like a good idea either way. Diaz bounced back in 2025 with a 1.63 ERA in 62 appearances. He would have to opt out to make this a possibility and New York almost certainly will make a strong push to keep him, but Diaz is the type of lock-down reliever that this Braves’ bullpen needs.

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Potential Impact of a Edwin Díaz Signing

Landing Edwin Díaz would not only fill the Braves’ closer role with one of the league’s elite but also deliver a psychological edge against their fiercest NL East rival.

Such a move could mirror past blockbuster bullpen acquisitions that changed the course of franchises. For Díaz, joining Atlanta could mean another playoff-contending opportunity, while for the Atlanta Braves, it would signify a major power shift within the division.

Comparison: Iglesias vs. Díaz (2025 Season Projection)

What Comes Next for the Braves

For now, Atlanta’s first task is finding a manager to replace Brian Snitker. Once that’s settled, the front office will likely turn to bullpen stability.

Whether that means retaining Iglesias or pulling off a stunning coup for Edwin Díaz, the Braves appear poised to make another aggressive move.Also read: MLB trade rumors: New York Yankees predicted to sign $498 million superstar to bolster squad ahead of trade deadlineA Díaz signing might seem far-fetched, but with Anthopoulos’ track record of bold roster decisions, it’s not beyond imagination. If it happens, the Braves would instantly strengthen their bullpen - and give Mets fans exactly what Eric Cole described as their “worst nightmare.”