Blue Jays Target Edwin Díaz; Mets Get Calls on McNeil

The MLB offseason’s rolling along, and even though qualifying offer decisions won’t wrap up until November 18, the rumor mill’s already churning. Teams are jostling for upgrades, and the Toronto Blue Jays keep popping up thanks to their bold chase of top bullpen arms.

Meanwhile, the New York Mets and Kansas City Royals are talking trades that could really shake up their rosters before spring training. Let’s dig into what’s happening and what it might mean for the 2026 season.

Blue Jays Eye Edwin Díaz in Bold Bullpen Overhaul

The Toronto Blue Jays just lost a heartbreaker in the World Series, and they seem determined not to let their bullpen be the weak link again. The Athletic says Toronto’s already chatted with agents for free-agent closer Edwin Díaz, who’s pretty much the most coveted reliever out there right now.

Díaz, 31, just finished a monster season with the New York Mets. He put up a 1.63 ERA, a 0.87 WHIP, and punched out 98 hitters in 66⅓ innings. That combo of blazing fastballs and sharp command? It’s made him a go-to closer. Toronto would have to pony up some serious cash and give up a draft pick, but from what folks are saying, they’re ready to make that leap if it means locking down the late innings.

Impact on Current Blue Jays Roster

Right now, Jeff Hoffman handles closing duties for Toronto, but if Díaz signs, Hoffman could slide into a high-leverage setup role. That’d give the Jays a nasty one-two punch at the end of games—something every contender wants in October.

• Edwin Díaz: 31 years old, top reliever available
• 2025 stats: 1.63 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 98 strikeouts
• Could bump Jeff Hoffman to setup
• Signing would cost a draft pick

Mets Explore Trade of Jeff McNeil

The New York Mets are reportedly picking up the phone on veteran utility guy Jeff McNeil, according to the New York Post. McNeil, 33, had a rough 2025—couldn’t get much going at the plate and dealt with thoracic outlet syndrome. Still, word is he’ll be back to full strength for spring training.

A Healthy McNeil Could Be a Valuable Asset

McNeil’s a two-time All-Star and won the National League batting title in 2022. He’s well known for making contact and bouncing around the field wherever needed. Last year, he hit .243 with 12 homers and put up a 2.0 WAR.

He’s due $15.75 million for 2026, which isn’t exactly cheap, but for a playoff hopeful that needs a steady bat and some flexibility, it might be worth it.

• Two-time All-Star, former batting champ
• 2025: .243 AVG, 12 HR, 2.0 WAR
• Contract: $15.75 million for 2026
• Can play all over the diamond

Royals Consider Moving Kris Bubic

The Kansas City Royals might get busy on the trade front too, with teams checking in on lefty Kris Bubic. Bubic, 28, broke out in 2025, going 8-7 with a 2.55 ERA and 3.1 WAR, but a shoulder injury cut his season short.

Kansas City’s Pitching Depth Opens the Door for Trade

With just one year of team control left and plenty of arms on hand, the Royals could use Bubic as a trade chip to boost their offense. His strong year and team-friendly contract make him pretty appealing to clubs hunting for a mid-rotation starter.

• 2025 breakout: 2.55 ERA, 3.1 WAR
• One year of team control left
• Shoulder injury ended season early
• Trade could help fill offensive gaps

Final Thoughts: A Fast-Moving Offseason

Free agency’s open, and trade talks are already buzzing. MLB front offices aren’t wasting any time shaping their rosters.

The Blue Jays could go big for Díaz. The Mets are listening on McNeil, and it sounds like the Royals might move Bubic.

Any of these moves could shake up the league by 2026. It’s wild how quickly things change in the offseason.

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Here is the source article for this story: MLB rumors: Blue Jays interested in Edwin Díaz, Mets get calls on Jeff McNeil, more