LOS ANGELES — In a highly anticipated move, the iconic trumpet melody “Narco,” famously associated with star closer Edwin Diaz, will soon resonate through Dodger Stadium. Diaz, who officially joined the Los Angeles Dodgers with a three-year, $69 million contract, expressed his excitement at his introductory news conference, sharing, “It’s going to be super emotional when the trumpets sound here at Dodger Stadium. It’s going to be something special.”
Diaz, 31, spent the last seven seasons as the closer for the New York Mets, rising to prominence with fans thanks to his electrifying entrance tune. However, following the Mets’ disappointing performance in the latter part of the 2025 season, Diaz decided to opt out of his contract’s final two years, totaling $38 million. The Mets attempted to retain him but ultimately signed Devin Williams to fill the void left by Diaz.
Leaving New York was a difficult decision for Diaz, who reflected positively on his time there, stating, “They treated me really good. They treated me great.” He chose the Dodgers for their winning culture and aspirations, calling the decision straightforward.
The Dodgers, the reigning champions and the first team to win consecutive titles in 25 years, had previously struggled with their bullpen, ranking near the bottom of the league in saves and ERA. By acquiring Diaz, who boasts the third-highest number of saves (235) since 2017 despite missing the entire 2023 season due to a knee injury, the team aims to fortify its relief options. Last season, Diaz demonstrated peak performance, achieving a 1.63 ERA and converting 28 of 31 save opportunities, earning his third All-Star selection.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman highlighted the significance of signing Diaz, emphasizing the caliber needed to secure a closer role in their competitive environment. He affectionately referred to Diaz by his nickname, “Sugar,” underscoring the player’s elite status.
During his press conference, Diaz was supported by his family, including his three sons, who were in the front row. He announced that he would be changing his jersey number to No. 3, honoring his children, as the No. 39 has been retired in memory of Hall of Fame catcher Roy Campanella.
The Dodgers have been active in bolstering their roster over the past two years, adding notable talents like Shohei Ohtani and Tyler Glasnow. With Diaz now joining the ranks, they aspire not just to maintain their dominance in Major League Baseball but to secure a third consecutive championship in 2026.
Reflecting on his move, Diaz asserted that the chance to play for a franchise of the Dodgers’ stature was a unique opportunity that he was thrilled to embrace. Meanwhile, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes shared his enthusiasm for the high-caliber addition, stating, “The opportunity to add someone of this caliber to what is already a really talented bullpen was something that we weren’t sure was going to come to fruition, but I’m really fired up that it did.”