The Los Angeles Dodgers made a bold move this offseason by signing Edwin Díaz to a record-setting contract, aiming to bolster their bullpen. The Dodgers faced fierce competition from the New York Mets, who were eager to keep their All-Star reliever. Despite the Mets' comparable offer and willingness to negotiate further, Díaz opted for Los Angeles, leaving Mets leadership surprised.
Steve Cohen, the Mets' owner and CEO, expressed his bewilderment over the decision during a discussion on the team's YouTube channel. "I did find that one perplexing," Cohen admitted. "I thought we made a pretty respectable bid."
Díaz's contract with the Dodgers, while shorter than the anticipated four- or five-year deals, boasts a record $23 million average annual value for a relief pitcher, surpassing his previous $20.4 million with the Mets.
Responding to Cohen's comments, Díaz highlighted the Dodgers' effective recruitment efforts as a key factor in his decision. "I think the Dodgers did a great job recruiting me," Díaz explained. "At the end of the day, I chose to be here."
While Díaz cherished his time with the Mets and holds the organization in high regard, he's excited about this new chapter with the Dodgers. "I have a lot of respect for the Mets organization," he said.
"But at the end of the day, I’m here. This is a new journey for me, and I’m happy to be with the Dodgers."
Interestingly, Dodgers' president of baseball operations, Andrew Friedman, wasn't confident about landing Díaz for most of the negotiation process. However, the Dodgers' reputation and winning culture ultimately swayed Díaz. He noted the team's treatment of players and the influence of his brother, Alexis Díaz, and Kiké Hernández in his decision-making process.
With Díaz on board, the Dodgers have made a significant statement, and fans are eager to see how this move will impact their bullpen strength in the upcoming season.