The Los Angeles Dodgers signed closer Edwin Diaz to a three-year, $69 million deal, bolstering their bullpen after last season's struggles. However, Diaz's desire to pitch for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic raises worries due to his past injury there. The team was informed of his commitment beforehand, but fans remain cautious.
The Los Angeles Dodgers addressed a key weakness in their bullpen by signing Edwin Diaz, formerly of the New York Mets, to a three-year, $69 million contract during the MLB Winter Meetings. Last season, the Dodgers' relief pitching was a notable shortfall for the superteam, and Diaz's pedigree as a top closer is expected to provide stability.
Diaz brings an impressive resume but also an injury history that complicates his future. In the 2023 World Baseball Classic, he suffered a torn PCL in his knee while celebrating Puerto Rico's victory over the Dominican Republic, sidelining him for the entire 2023 MLB season. Despite recovering and staying healthy since returning in 2024, Diaz has expressed interest in representing Puerto Rico again in the 2026 tournament.
The injury occurred off the field during celebrations, not during gameplay, which may temper the Dodgers' concerns. Diaz disclosed his WBC commitment to the team before signing. In a press interview, he stated, “It’s been a little hectic, but you have to honor your commitments. I went there to get my physical and told them I had to return to Puerto Rico on Saturday because I had this commitment with José Berríos. The team was flexible; everything flowed very well, we were able to sign, and we’re here today.”
While MLB teams can prevent players from participating in the WBC, doing so could strain relationships, especially with upcoming CBA negotiations. The Dodgers recently invested in their bullpen to support plans like keeping Roki Sasaki in the rotation for 2026, after he closed games in the postseason. Sasaki has opted out of pitching for Japan this time.
The WBC holds cultural significance for international stars like Diaz, who is proud of his Puerto Rican heritage. The Dodgers previously benefited from WBC connections, as teammates Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto joined the team post-tournament. Still, the organization will monitor Diaz closely to ensure his health, potentially advising caution under manager Yadier Molina for Puerto Rico.