The New York Mets received a major setback in their offseason plans when their former All-Star closer Edwin Diaz inked a lucrative three-year, $69 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Mets had hoped to bring back Diaz, who had opted out of his contract to test free agency. Reports indicated that the Mets had offered a $66 million deal over three years with deferrals, but Diaz ultimately chose to join the Dodgers, the two-time defending World Series champions.
MLB insider Jeff Passan shed light on Diaz’s decision, revealing that the pitcher was “unhappy” about the lack of communication from the Mets regarding the team’s signing of All-Star closer Devin Williams. The Mets had recently signed Williams to a three-year, $45 million deal, prompting Diaz to explore other options.
Despite the Dodgers’ strong interest in Diaz, they were only willing to commit to a three-year deal, as reported by Passan. The Dodgers set a new record for the highest average annual value for a closer with Diaz’s contract. This move comes on the heels of the Dodgers signing Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million deal last offseason. Diaz and Scott are expected to share closing duties for the Dodgers in the upcoming season.
The Mets were reportedly unwilling to match the Dodgers’ offer to Diaz, leading to his departure to Los Angeles. The deal with the Dodgers marks a significant milestone for Diaz, who now holds the title of the closer with the highest AAV in MLB history.
Overall, the Dodgers’ acquisition of Diaz underscores their commitment to building a formidable bullpen for the upcoming season. With Diaz and Scott anchoring their bullpen, the Dodgers look poised to maintain their status as a top contender in the National League.
