Steve Cohen Reacts to Edwin Diaz’s Departure to the Dodgers

Steve Cohen, the Mets owner, is still grappling with Edwin Diaz’s decision to join the Dodgers. During a recent press conference, he expressed his confusion over the star closer’s move to the two-time World Series champions after spending seven seasons with the Mets.

It seems Cohen was searching for clarity, especially as Diaz signed a three-year, $69 million deal with Los Angeles. “I thought that was certainly puzzling,” he commented. He acknowledged that the decision was Diaz’s to make, noting, “I thought we made a pretty respectable bid.”

The Mets had offered Diaz—now 31—about $66 million, indicating they could have gone higher if needed. In a press conference after his signing, Diaz emphasized that money wasn’t the primary factor in his choice. “It wasn’t easy. I spent seven years in New York, and they treated me very well,” he reflected. “I chose the Dodgers because they’re a winning organization. I want to win, and I think they have everything to win, so it was a no-brainer for me.”

During his time with the Mets, Diaz helped the team reach the postseason twice, including a loss in the 2024 NLCS against the Dodgers. As a precaution, the Mets had already secured Devin Williams with a three-year, $51 million contract in case talks with Diaz fell through.

Cohen praised the forward-thinking of President of Baseball Operations David Stearns during this challenging time. He mentioned that he felt good about signing Williams because it provided a solid backup plan. “It was a very good hedge in case it went against Edwin,” he noted.

Diaz had a standout season last year, boasting a 1.63 ERA and 28 saves. However, the Mets missed the playoffs by just one game, prompting significant changes to their roster. Stearns opted not to re-sign Diaz or Pete Alonso and made trades involving Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil.

Cohen, reflecting on the overall situation, shared concerns like many Mets fans about the franchise’s direction. “By the way, I felt that way too,” he added. The players who departed were ones he had built close relationships with since taking ownership. “It’s the first time I’ve experienced something like this. That’s what causes the anxiety when people leave,” he expressed.