PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. _ The Mets' bullpen seems to possess exciting potential this season. For it to reach the ceiling, though, two relievers need to bounce back.
1. Edwin Diaz
2. Jeurys Familia
When evaluating New York's bullpen, a few ifs arise. There are always questions, especially before any games have been played. But even at this point, some points seem certain.
Here's one: If Diaz and Familia can't improve upon disappointing 2019 campaigns, the Mets' bullpen might not be much better.
In December, the Mets added Dellin Betances. A couple weeks before, they re-signed Brad Brach. They have six starting pitchers for five spots, and the odd man out could join the bullpen.
All signs point to the unit being a strength in 2020.
But Diaz and Familia must be much better. As pitchers and catchers reported to spring training at Clover Park, both were positive about the season ahead.
"I think we have a great bullpen," Diaz said through team interpreter Alan Suriel. "I think, at the end of the day, it's going to come down to health. If we're healthy, we're going to be one of the best bullpens in the league."
