All-Star closer makes sense for the Mets if this AL club decides to sell at the deadline

The New York Mets need reinforcements for their bullpen and this potential acquisition would likely have a big impact.

Texas Rangers All-Star closer Kirby Yates just appeared in the All-Star Game for the American League on Tuesday night, and it’s possible he could become available just before the July 30 trade deadline.

The 37-year-old has had a stellar season for the Rangers, who are currently in a tough spot. As defending World Series champions, Texas sits five games behind the AL West at 46-50. However, the Houston Astros are in top form, the Seattle Mariners are still a game ahead of them in first place, and the Rangers are even further behind in the Wild Card race at 7.5 games back of the third and final spot.

So while the team could potentially make a run in the second half, time is running out and Yates is a free agent after the season ends. He also makes $4.5 million in 2024 and is on loan for less than that amount for the rest of the year, meaning he’s affordable as a rental option.

Mark Sanchez of the New York Post has mentioned Yates as a candidate for the New York Yankees, for whom the veteran reliever pitched in 2016. But he would also provide a major boost to the Mets’ bullpen. Edwin Diaz has been shaky at best so far, and if he doesn’t get things under control down the stretch, Yates could slide into the closer’s role. At the very least, he would be a strong choice as a setup man for rookie manager Carlos Mendoza.

Yates has a perfect 16-of-16 save chance this year and has an excellent 1.05 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and 46 strikeouts in 34.1 innings. If Texas is willing to part ways with Yates at the deadline, he could be a huge help to the Mets.