The Los Angeles Dodgers have only made one free agency splash, but it was a big one — landing superstar closer Edwin Diaz on a three-year deal that secures the closer spot for the coming seasons.
The Dodgers had a poor bullpen all season long last year and somehow ended up winning the World Series, though the front office was well aware that the trend could not continue another year.
The struggles came despite signing multiple relievers last winter — most prominently Tanner Scott. The numerous free agent busts from the previous campaign did not stop Andrew Friedman and Co. from opening the checkbook again.
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They committed $69 million to Diaz, coming out to the highest average annual value of any free agent reliever in MLB history.
The payday, according to The New York Post’s Jon Heyman, has Diaz sitting among one of the winners in free agency as he gets the money and chance to compete for a World Series title.
“He didn’t take the five-year Braves offer but got a record closer deal ($23 million per year) to go to the perennially World Series-favored Dodgers. Timmy Trumpet will go with him (but not Mr. and Mrs. Met),” Heyman wrote in his story.
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During his introductory press conference, Diaz noted that he valued the Dodgers’ track record of challenging for titles, and he wanted to give himself the best chance to win.
“It wasn’t easy,” Diaz said. “I spent seven years in New York. They treated me really good. They treated me great. I chose the Dodgers because they are a winning organization. I’m looking to win, and I think they have everything to win. Picking the Dodgers was pretty easy.”
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Last season, the Dodgers’ bullpen posted a 4.27 ERA and blew 27 saves, tied for the 23rd most in baseball. The unit desperately needs help, and Diaz will bring an aura of reliability and trust that will help the entire staff.
Tanner Scott can move into a set-up role, while every other arm gets a chance to move into slightly lower leverage spots.
In 62 appearances, Diaz put up a 1.63 ERA, making good on 28 of his 31 save chances. He will be a difference maker for the Dodgers, and he will be a reason that Los Angeles enters the season as favorites to capture their sought-after three-peat.
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