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As we move into the dog days of summer, MLB bullpens are under the microscope with the trade deadline looming and postseason races intensifying. Roles are shifting, new names are emerging, and veteran closers are fighting to prove they still belong.
Gregory Soto is traded to the Mets’ stacked bullpen
The Mets have acquired left-handed reliever Soto from Baltimore in exchange for two low‑level prospects after appearing to gain a shot at saves in the Orioles bullpen. Soto logged 45 appearances this season, with a 3.96 ERA, 44 strikeouts in 36.1 innings, and one save.
As a two-time All-Star with high‑whiff stuff (31.1% whiff rate, 94th percentile barrel rate), he immediately becomes a dark horse save candidate in the Mets’ stacked bullpen.
Díaz remains locked in as the closer, but if health or performance wavers, Stanek is the likely successor. Soto adds late-inning experience and becomes a dark horse candidate, especially against left-heavy lineups.
Seranthony Domínguez now in the lead spot for the Orioles
With Soto now in New York and Félix Bautista on the IL, Domínguez is now firmly the leading closer candidate for Baltimore. Domínguez saved 10 games in 2024 and has posted a 3.40 ERA with 51 strikeouts in 39.2 innings this year.
While he has struggled with control (24 walks), he’s clearly the first choice to receive most save chances.
Manager Tony Mansolino has hinted at flexible usage rather than locking down a single closer.
A look at the current bullpen situations of both teams
| Team | Current closer | Backup | Next option | Dark horse |
| Mets | Edwin Diaz | Ryne Stanek | Reed Garrett | Gregory Soto |
| Orioles | Seranthony Dominguez | Yennier Cano | Andrew Kittredge | Corbin Martin |