Edwin Diaz’s exit leaves the Mets looking for a new sound.

Edwin Diaz Signs with Dodgers After Leaving Mets

In a surprising turn of events, Edwin Diaz, the standout closer for the New York Mets, is heading to the Dodgers after agreeing to a three-year deal reportedly worth $69 million. This follows Diaz opting out of the final two years of his previous contract, which was valued at $38 million.

Sources indicated that the Mets had offered Diaz a three-year package worth $66 million, incorporating some deferred payments. Conversely, the Dodgers plan to defer $4.5 million annually on his contract, adjusting the luxury tax implications to about $21.1 million per year.

Despite the Mets’ efforts, including general manager David Stearns expressing optimism during winter meetings, Diaz’s departure marks another significant change for the Mets this offseason. Recently, they traded another veteran star, Stearns, to Texas, with speculation lingering around free agent Pete Alonso.

A factor complicating the Mets’ bid for Diaz was his dissatisfaction with the departure of pitching coach Jeremy Hefner, who was let go after the season. It’s also believed that Diaz was influenced by positive remarks from his brother, Alexis, who pitched for the Dodgers last season.

Turning 32 in March, Diaz had a remarkable season with the Mets, appearing in 62 games and boasting a 1.63 ERA with 28 saves. He joined the Mets in a high-profile trade in 2019 involving Robinson Cano, and his signature entrance to Citi Field—while “Narco” played—became iconic. He’s represented the team in the All-Star Game twice.

In recent moves, Stearns secured Devin Williams, a former Brewers closer, in a three-year deal worth $51 million to bolster the bullpen. Williams had a rough season with the Yankees, but Stearns is confident in his ability to excel.

The Mets are also eyeing Robert Suarez as a potential addition to their bullpen mix, although Stearns hinted that Williams might be the sole major reliever signing this offseason.

When questioned about spending beyond their limits given the franchise’s financial resources under owner Steve Cohen, Stearns acknowledged that while they have considerable flexibility, decisions will always take a bigger picture into account. “No team has infinite resources,” he remarked, suggesting a focused and strategic approach in building the roster.