Photo by Kirk Wester via Shutterstock/ Wikimedia Commons.
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The Dodgers are making a big off-season splash. The top reliever on the market is now in Dodger blue! The team has agreed to a three-year, $69 million deal with elite closer, Edwin DÃaz, according to multiple reports. While the club hasn’t confirmed the signing, the move would give L.A. the best reliever on the free-agent market and set a new average annual value record for a relief pitcher.
Why the Dodgers made the move
The Dodgers went into the winter knowing they needed bullpen help, and they weren’t shy about making a move. DÃaz opted out of the final two years and $38 million left on his Mets deal to test free agency, and the Dodgers didn’t waste time jumping at the opportunity.
The Mets tried to keep him, including a $22.025 million qualifying offer, but DÃaz chose Los Angeles instead. That decision means the Dodgers will give up some draft capital, while New York gets a compensatory pick. But it’s a trade-off L.A. was clearly willing to make for a true impact arm.
DÃaz is back in tip-top shape
After missing the entire 2023 season due to a knee injury suffered during the World Baseball Classic, DÃaz bounced back in a big way in 2025. He posted a 1.63 ERA, converted 28 of 31 save chances, and struck out 98 batters in 66 1/3 innings, reestablishing himself as one of the game’s elite closers.
What this means for the Dodgers heading into 2026
The move continues a change in how the Dodgers are building their bullpen, following last off-season’s big bet on Tanner Scott. With DÃaz expected to step in as the closer, L.A. gets more stability at the back end. Plus, the move sends a familiar message that the Dodgers are still all-in.