What Happened to Edwin Diaz? Why Did Edwin Díaz Get Ejected?

What Happened to Edwin Diaz?

Edwin Díaz, the Mets' closer, was ejected from a game against the Cubs due to a sticky substance on his hand, which umpires deemed illegal. Despite Díaz's insistence that he used only legal substances like rosin and sweat, umpires found his hand excessively sticky during a routine check before he could pitch in the ninth inning. This led to his immediate ejection and a looming 10-game suspension, part of MLB's crackdown on foreign substances used by pitchers.

Díaz's ejection came amidst a strong performance by the Mets, who won the game, but it casts a shadow over their bullpen plans as they face an important upcoming series. Díaz, who has battled injuries in recent seasons, including knee surgery and shoulder issues, expressed disappointment over letting down his team again after returning to form. The incident reflects ongoing challenges and controversies surrounding MLB's enforcement of pitching regulations.

Why Did Edwin Díaz Get Ejected?

Edwin Díaz was ejected from the Mets' game against the Cubs because umpires found a sticky substance on his throwing hand during a routine check. Despite Díaz claiming he only used rosin, sweat, and dirt for grip, umpires believed the stickiness exceeded legal limits.

This violation falls under MLB's crackdown on foreign substances used by pitchers to enhance grip and spin rates. It's Díaz's first such ejection but marks the third time a Mets pitcher has faced this issue in the past year. He faces a 10-game suspension pending any appeal, impacting the Mets' bullpen strategy during a crucial stretch of games.

Who is Edwin Díaz?

Edwin Díaz is a professional baseball pitcher from Puerto Rico currently playing for the New York Mets in Major League Baseball (MLB). He began his MLB career with the Seattle Mariners, where he quickly established himself as a dominant closer. Shortly after his debut, Díaz set a Mariners record for consecutive strikeouts and was appointed as the team's closer. In his rookie season, he saved 19 games and finished fifth in the American League Rookie of the Year voting.

In 2018, Díaz had a standout year, leading the American League with 57 saves, earning an All-Star selection, and being named the AL Reliever of the Year. Following the 2018 season, he was traded to the New York Mets. He continued his success in New York, earning his second All-Star nod in 2022. Known for his powerful fastball and effective slider, Díaz remains a key figure in MLB's bullpen, recognized for his ability to secure victories in high-pressure situations.

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Edwin Díaz Career

Here's a summary of Edwin Díaz's career highlights year by year:

Minor Leagues (2012–2016):

• 2012: Drafted by Seattle Mariners, made pro debut with Arizona League Mariners.
• 2013: Pitched for Pulaski Mariners, impressive with 1.43 ERA and 79 strikeouts.
• 2014: Named Mariners' fifth-best prospect, played with Clinton LumberKings.
• 2015: Played for Bakersfield Blaze and Jackson Generals, named Minor League Starting Pitcher of the Year.
• 2016: Started with Jackson Generals, moved to bullpen, called up to MLB in June.

Seattle Mariners (2016–2018):

• 2016: Broke Mariners' record for consecutive strikeouts, became closer in August.
• 2018: All-Star selection, set Mariners' single-season saves record with 57 saves, AL Reliever of the Year.

New York Mets (2019–present):

• 2019: Traded to Mets, struggled with performance compared to previous season.
• 2020: Shortened season, converted 6 saves with a 1.75 ERA.
• 2021: Recorded 32 saves, improved performance.
• 2022: Named All-Star, earned NL Reliever of the Month, signed record-breaking $102 million contract.
• 2023: Injured during World Baseball Classic, missed season due to knee surgery.
• 2024: Returned with Mets, achieved 100th save, but faces suspension for using sticky substance.

Edwin Díaz Contract

Edwin Díaz signed a massive contract with the New York Mets worth $102 million over 5 years. The deal includes a $12 million signing bonus and guarantees him the full $102 million. His average yearly salary is $20.4 million. In 2024, Díaz will earn a base salary of $11.75 million, totaling $19.65 million with bonuses. Some of his salary will be paid out in the years 2033-2035. It's a significant deal in baseball!

Edwin Díaz Stats