...
By Jon Paul Hoornstra
Contributing Sports Writer
0
Share
Newsweek is a Trust Project member
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
On the day the Los Angeles Dodgers introduced their new $69 million closer, Edwin Diaz, the three-time All-Star sent a message to Mets fans on Instagram.
More news: Mets Lose Star Free Agent to Orioles on Massive $155 Million Deal: Reports
Read More on MLB
"New York, New York," Diaz wrote on his account. "The city that never sleeps and that’s forever shaped me. Thank you for 7 incredible years in your city! Thank you Mets fans for the love and support you showed me over those 7 memorable years. It has been the biggest honor to wear the Mets uniform and sound the trumpets in Queens, NY.
"I’m grateful to the ownership, coaches, staff, teammates, and fans that my family and I met along the way. You’ll always be such a special part of our journey."
...
A three-time All-Star, Diaz was the best relief pitcher on the free agent market and might be the best closer in baseball.
In nine major league seasons with the Mets and Seattle Mariners, Diaz has racked up 253 saves, a strikeout rate of 14.5 per nine innings, and three Reliever of the Year awards.
More news: Mets Considering Yankees Free Agent as Pete Alonso Replacement: Report
Now he's got a new number (3) in addition to a new team, as the Dodgers look to defend their back-to-back World Series championships in 2026.
Diaz confirmed he will continue to use his familiar entrance music — the "Narco" theme song — in Los Angeles.
More news: Mets 4-Time All-Star Sends Powerful Message After Pete Alonso Bids Farewell
"Los Angeles, I’ll see you soon," Diaz wrote on Instagram. "Get ready to sound those trumpets in Dodger Stadium 🎺🎺"
The Dodgers swooped in to reach an agreement with Diaz's camp at baseball's Winter Meetings earlier this week in Orlando, Florida. The contract became official Friday.
Call it a case of the rich getting richer. The Dodgers found the perfect solution to the ninth-inning woes that nearly derailed their World Series aspirations, while Diaz's $23 million average annual salary is the highest ever for a closer.
“I chose the Dodgers because they are a winning organization,” Diaz said. “I’m looking to win, and I think they have everything to win.”
For more MLB news, visit Newsweek Sports.
View 0 Comments
Submit Correction
View Editorial & AI Guidelines