Part 6/15:
Regarding Edwin Diaz, Sterns states a desire to bring him back but doesn’t rule out internal options like Clay Holmes or others, yet Roberts argues that internal options are limited, and a trade or free agent will be the likeliest route to replace Diaz if he departs.
The discussion underscores that replacing Diaz will likely involve front-line relievers with proven late-inning capability, rather than internal developmental options. Roberts assesses that a “lockdown” reliever — capable of dominating in high-leverage moments, perhaps beyond just the ninth inning — is a top priority, probably requiring an addition of at least three high-quality relievers.