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**Summary:**

Edwin Díaz, the Mets closer, struggled early in the season with velocity and control. Following mechanical adjustments and words of encouragement from teammate Pete Alonso, Díaz has found his form. He showcased his improved stuff in a dominant performance against the Yankees, striking out Aaron Judge on a 99 mph fastball to secure a 3-2 victory in Game 2 of the Subway Series. His confidence is high, and the high-pressure environment of the Subway Series seems to be further fueling his performance. Francisco Lindor’s late-game RBI and Alonso’s consistent hitting also contributed to the Mets’ win.

**News Article:**

**Díaz Shuts Down Yankees, Strikes Out Judge in Dominant Subway Series Performance**

**Yankee Stadium, NY** – Edwin Díaz delivered arguably his most dominant performance of the season Saturday, shutting down the Yankees in the ninth inning to secure a 3-2 Mets victory in Game 2 of the Subway Series. The Mets closer capped off the inning by striking out reigning American League MVP Aaron Judge on a blistering 99 mph fastball, sending a message that he’s back to his dominant self.

“Right now,” Díaz said after the game, “I’m doing whatever I want on the mound.”

It’s a stark contrast to Díaz’s early season struggles, where flagging velocity and inconsistent control plagued the All-Star closer. He sat in the mid-90s with his fastball. Walking six batters over a four-outing stretch in mid-April.

Pitching coach Jeremy Hefner credits the high-stakes atmosphere of the Subway Series for Díaz’s increased velocity and intensity. “The Subway Series is always going to bring a little bit more,” Hefner said. “That’s a playoff atmosphere. You’re going to get the best from both sides.”

Díaz revealed that some mechanical adjustments helped him gain better command of his arm-side fastballs.

According to teammates, positivity has been a contributing factor in the reliever’s turnaround. In the Citi Field sauna room earlier in the week, Pete Alonso offered words of encouragement to Díaz. “Hey dude, you look really good,” Alonso said to Diaz.

The Mets offense was supported by Francisco Lindor, who provided the go-ahead run with a ninth-inning sacrifice fly. Pete Alonso had two more hits and an RBI.

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