Dodgers Sign Reliever Edwin Diaz, Bringing Iconic Entrance to Los Angeles
On Tuesday, the Dodgers not only added one of baseball’s elite relievers by signing Edwin Diaz, but they also welcomed a closer known for one of the game’s most exciting entrances.
Diaz, formerly a star with the Mets, famously charged to the mound to the thrilling beats of “Narco” by Blaster Jacks and Timmy Trumpet. This performance quickly made him a beloved figure among fans as he delivered save after save.
Many consider this entrance to be among the best in Major League Baseball history. As he gears up for his debut at Dodger Stadium, it’s worth revisiting some of the most memorable pitcher walk-ups in the sport.
Honorable Mentions
Charlie Sheen, portraying Ricky Vaughn in the film Major League, popularized the concept of the closer’s entrance. While it’s a fictional character, movie fans won’t forget The Wild Thing’s dramatic jog to the mound.
John Smoltz, after transitioning from starter to reliever with the Braves, had his memorable moments marked by ABBA’s “Dancing Queen,” which left a lasting impression in baseball circles.
Craig Kimbrel had a fun entrance with the song “Let It Go” from Disney’s Frozen, using it as an upbeat tribute during Women’s Day 2022, which seemed to bring him and the team some good luck for a while.
5. Jonathan Papelbon — “I’m Shipping Up to Boston”
During his time with the Red Sox, this Dropkick Murphys anthem became a crowd favorite whenever it blared at Fenway Park. It was electrifying and always sent fans into a frenzy.
Papelbon did stay true to this entrance for many years, but he eventually switched to Alice in Chains’ “Man in the Box” after moving to Philadelphia.
4. Eric Gagné – “Welcome to the Jungle”
While Gagné’s entrance may not have been the most extravagant, there was a multi-year stretch when Guns N’ Roses was synonymous with winning for Dodgers fans at Chavez Ravine.
3. Trevor Hoffman – “Hell’s Bells”
The iconic San Diego Padres Hall of Famer became almost inseparable from AC/DC’s classic tune. When the music started and the bell rang, fans knew Hoffman was coming to secure the game.
2. Edwin Diaz – “Narco”
While he may not have as extensive a career as some others, finding a more compelling entrance than Diaz’s “Narco” is tough. The combination of trumpet blasts, lights, and the overall ambiance has created a magical experience for Mets fans, who will undoubtedly feel the loss when he suits up for the Dodgers in 2026.
1. Mariano Rivera — “Enter Sandman”
Lastly, Rivera’s entrance stands apart not because of flashy visuals but due to its unmatched impact. Starting in 1999, “Enter Sandman” became a signal of impending doom for opposing batters, cementing Rivera as arguably the greatest closer in history.
