Edwin Díaz Injury Update: Mets Closer Likely Out for 2023 MLB Season After Hurting Knee During WBC Celebration
Edwin Díaz fans and New York Mets supporters received the grim news that the star closer is likely to miss the 2023 MLB season after sustaining an injury to his knee during a World Baseball Classic (WBC) celebration. As the Mets’ mainstay relief pitcher, Díaz’s absence would be a major blow to their playoff aspirations and potentially derail their entire season.
Díaz’s recent injury occurred during a post-game celebration for Puerto Rico after beating the Dominican Republic in the WBC quarterfinals. In the excitement of the moment, Díaz leaped and landed awkwardly on his left knee, causing what appears to be significant damage. Though the specific diagnosis has yet to be announced, the Mets and their fans are understandably concerned that the injury will sideline Díaz for an extended period.
The 2022 MLB season was a mixed bag for Díaz. On one hand, he continued to showcase his elite strikeout stuff and recorded 36 saves, solidifying his status as one of baseball’s most dominant relievers. On the other hand, he struggled with consistency and control, finishing the year with a 3.38 ERA and eight blown saves. Despite the occasional hiccup, the Mets relied heavily on Díaz in high-leverage situations, and he delivered more often than not.
If Díaz is indeed out for 2023, the Mets will be left with a significant void in their bullpen. Given the importance of relief pitching to playoff teams, New York will likely explore trade options and other avenues to add depth to their back-end. Without Díaz anchoring the bullpen, the team may turn to a closer-by-committee approach or rely on younger arms to step up in his absence.
For Díaz, missing significant time would be a heartbreaking setback. The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the game’s most electrifying closers, with a career ERA of 2.78 and 151 saves. He’s also shown resilience in the face of adversity, bouncing back from a difficult 2019 campaign to become a key part of the Mets’ playoff push last season.
Regardless of the specifics of Díaz’s injury, the situation serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of sports. Injuries can strike at any time, and they can instantly change the fortunes of individual players and entire teams. As Mets fans and the rest of the baseball world await more information on Díaz’s status, they’ll be hoping for the best while bracing for the worst.
