Relief pitcher Edwin Díaz has agreed to a $69 million, three-year contract with the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
Díaz’s agreement includes deferred payments by the Dodgers, with the deal also subject to a successful physical. He joins a Dodgers bullpen that includes lefty Tanner Scott (who dealt with elbow inflammation in his first season after signing a $72 million, four-year contract). Jack Dreyer, Anthony Banda and Alex Vesia also are in the bullpen.
Sources told ESPN’s Jeff Passan: “Closer Edwin Díaz’s deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers is for three years and $69 million, sources tell ESPN. The Dodgers, who were targeting bullpen help this winter, got the best closer on the market, setting a new AAV record for relievers.”
Díaz, a three-time All-Star, had 28 saves in 31 chances last season with a 6-3 record and 1.63 ERA for the Mets, striking out 98 in 66 1/3 innings. He signed a $102 million, five-year contract with the Mets after the 2022 season, which included deferred money payable through 2042. He had the right to opt out after three years and $64 million to become a free agent again. Of that $64 million, $15.5 million is deferred and payable through July 1, 2039.
Over nine seasons and 294 chances, Díaz has 253 saves with Seattle (2016-18) and the Mets. The closer missed the 2023 season after tearing the patellar tendon in his right knee during a postgame celebration with Puerto Rico at the World Baseball Classic.
Editorial credit: Steve Cukrov / Shutterstock.com
