Edwin Díaz is heading back to the World Baseball Classic stage - and yes, he’ll be wearing Puerto Rico’s colors once again. According to reports out of Puerto Rico, the Dodgers' new closer is set to suit up for his home country in the 2026 WBC, marking a bold return to the tournament that once derailed an entire season of his career.
If you’ve followed Díaz’s journey, you know exactly why this is a big deal. Back in 2023, he suffered a devastating torn patellar tendon while celebrating a win over the Dominican Republic - an injury that sidelined him for the entire MLB season.
It wasn’t just a freak accident; it became the defining moment of that year’s WBC, sparking a wave of debate about the tournament’s place in the baseball calendar. Fans were torn - literally and figuratively - between national pride and team loyalty.
But Díaz is back, and his decision to play again shows a lot about who he is. This isn’t just about redemption or unfinished business.
It’s about representing Puerto Rico on the international stage, even after the WBC cost him a year of his prime. That kind of commitment doesn’t go unnoticed - not by fans, not by teammates, and definitely not by the baseball world.
Still, while Díaz is in, there’s trouble brewing for Team Puerto Rico. The Puerto Rico Baseball Federation is reportedly considering pulling the entire squad from the tournament.
The reason? Several key players have been denied participation due to insurance issues - a logistical nightmare that’s keeping stars like Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa out of the mix.
That’s a serious blow for a team that’s consistently been one of the WBC’s most competitive and passionate squads.
Lindor and Correa not being able to suit up is more than just a roster issue - it’s a gut punch to a team identity built around star power, flair, and chemistry. These are players who’ve been the heartbeat of Puerto Rico’s recent WBC runs, and without them, the team’s chances - and its very participation - are up in the air.
As for Díaz, he's coming into this WBC with a fresh chapter in front of him. After missing all of 2023, he signed a three-year, $69 million deal with the Dodgers this offseason.
The expectation? He’ll take over the closer role, especially after Tanner Scott’s rocky performance last year.
And with 253 career saves and a jaw-dropping 14.5 strikeouts per nine innings, Díaz still profiles as one of the most dominant late-inning arms in the game.
So now, the baseball world waits. Will Puerto Rico make it to the 2026 WBC with Díaz leading the charge? Or will off-field complications derail one of the tournament’s most electric teams before the first pitch is even thrown?
One thing’s for sure: if Edwin Díaz is on the mound, eyes will be watching - and ears will be waiting for that familiar entrance music.