The New York Mets received a major hit to their World Series chances in 2023 with the news that star closer Edwin Diaz is out for the season with a torn patellar tendon.
On Wednesday night, Diaz took part in closing out Team Puerto Rico’s big win over the Dominican Republic, which moved the team on to the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic. However, in celebrating the victory with his teammates, the two-time All-Star suffered a freak injury to his knee that left him unable to walk and needing to be carried off the field.
Related: New York Mets star Edwin Diaz suffers freak knee injury while celebrating
The moment left teammates in tears, fans in attendance shocked, and New York Mets fans fearing the worst. On Thursday afternoon the team’s closer underwent tests to find out the severity of the injury to his right knee. Well, the results delivered Mets fans’ worst fears.
ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan reported that “Díaz tore the patellar tendon in his right knee during the celebration after Puerto Rico’s WBC victory against the Dominican Republic. He will need surgery and is expected to miss the season.”
The injury is a shocking blow to the organization’s championship aspirations in 2023 and comes just a few months after Edwin Diaz signed a record-breaking five-year, $102 million contract. The biggest deal ever for a closer.
The New York Mets underwent a makeover of their bullpen this winter and added several new faces. With Diaz, their bullpen was set to be a solid group with notable potential. However, with the 28-year-old done for the season, it totally changes things for the 2022 runners-up in the National League East.
Related: Edwin Diaz contract includes unique payouts through 2042
To replace Diaz in the closing role, the Mets are likely to go with the combo of winter acquisitions David Robertson and Brooks Raley to end games. Raley returned from the World Baseball Classic recently with a hamstring injury of his own, but the team expects him to be ready for Opening Day or soon after.
Another option to bolster the pen with the season set to start soon would be free agent, and former New York Yankees talent, Zach Britton who is having a second open workout for teams today.