The New York Mets are reportedly on the verge of securing a deal with free agent left-handed pitcher Jake Diekman, according to reports from The Athletic's Will Sammon and Ken Rosenthal. The Mets have been actively seeking left-handed bullpen help and Diekman would fulfill that requirement for the team.

Diekman, who is represented by the Beverly Hills Sports Council, is a seasoned veteran with 12 years of experience in the major leagues. The 37-year-old has played for eight different clubs throughout his career, and a move to the Mets would mark his ninth team.

Known for his power-arm and ability to generate strikeouts, Diekman has often struggled with command, evidenced by his career 13.3% walk rate. However, he has managed to overcome those challenges and maintain an impressive career ERA of 3.82 in 570 1/3 MLB innings. In eight of his twelve seasons, Diekman has kept his earned run average below 4.00.

Diekman's performance in the 2023 season was a tale of two halves. He struggled with the Chicago White Sox, allowing 10 runs on 11 hits and 13 walks in just 11 1/3 innings. However, upon signing with the Tampa Bay Rays, he made a significant turnaround, posting a stellar 2.18 ERA over 45 1/3 frames. During his time with Tampa Bay, Diekman showcased a fastball velocity that averaged 95.7 mph, consistent with his previous seasons.

Tampa Bay also influenced Diekman's pitch selection, as he began utilizing his changeup more frequently, throwing it at a career-high 15.8% rate. The results were positive, with opponents batting just .176/.222/.294 when faced with his changeup. Diekman's slider and four-seamer remained effective pitches, limiting opponents to a .161 and .175 average against them, respectively.

While Diekman's command remains a flaw, his quality pitches have consistently produced a high rate of whiffs and weak contact. Throughout his career, opponents have averaged below-average exit velocities against him, and in 2023, they mustered a paltry 84.6 mph average exit velocity.

The Mets have been active in bolstering their bullpen this offseason, signing four free agent relievers, including Jorge Lopez, Michael Tonkin, Austin Adams, and most recently, Adam Ottavino. This influx of veteran arms, combined with the returning pitchers such as Edwin Diaz, Brooks Raley, and Drew Smith, has revamped the Mets' bullpen for the upcoming season.

However, the Mets lack flexibility in their bullpen options, as none of their signed relievers can be optioned to the minors. This situation might prompt the team to further adjust their relief mix, potentially designating players like Sean Reid-Foley or Phil Bickford for assignment or seeking trade opportunities.

It's worth noting that the Mets are already operating close to the luxury tax threshold. Every dollar spent at this stage is taxed at a 110% rate, which means the team will pay double Diekman's salary to accommodate him in the bullpen. With the Mets' projected payroll and luxury obligations already significant, the addition of Diekman will further increase their financial commitment.

Although an agreement with Diekman has not been finalized, there is optimism surrounding the deal's completion. If secured, Diekman's addition would bring valuable left-handed relief support to the Mets' pitching staff for the upcoming season.