Edwin Díaz Joins Dodgers with 3-Year, $69 Million Deal: Sources
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move in the pitching market by signing Edwin Díaz, a prominent closer in Major League Baseball. The team has secured the three-time All-Star with a contract worth $69 million over three years, making it a landmark agreement in the sport.
Edwin Díaz’s Record-Breaking Deal
Díaz’s new contract averages $23 million annually, setting a record for relief pitchers. This surpasses the previous high he established after the 2022 season with a five-year, $102.5 million contract with the New York Mets. The adjusted value of his former deal fell below $95 million due to deferrals, prompting him to opt out with two years remaining to explore new opportunities.
Career Highlights
Since his debut in 2016 with the Seattle Mariners, Díaz has solidified his status as one of the best closers in the league. Key highlights of his career include:
- Saving 57 games in 2018.
- Joining the New York Mets in 2019 after a trade.
- Maintaining an impressive strikeout rate, approaching 40% throughout his career.
- Recording an ERA below 2.00 on four occasions.
- Recovering from a knee injury suffered during the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Dodgers’ Offseason Strategy
The Dodgers have actively pursued improvements to their bullpen this offseason. After evaluating other relief options, including notable names like Raisel Iglesias and Ryan Helsley, they settled on Díaz. Earlier, they also signed Tanner Scott to a four-year, $72 million deal.
Manager Dave Roberts expressed the team’s commitment to enhancing their roster, stating, “A high-leverage reliever is never a bad thing.” Even with Scott’s previous performance, the Dodgers remain vigilant in their efforts to strengthen their pitching lineup.
Conclusion
The signing of Edwin Díaz not only solidifies the Dodgers’ bullpen but also sets new records within Major League Baseball. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Díaz’s arrival marks a strategic investment in their pursuit of success.
