New York Mets star closer Edwin Díaz is suffering a right knee injury while celebrating on the field in Puerto Rico at the World Baseball Classic on Wednesday, the Mets announced. He will have imaging on Thursday. Here’s what you need to know:
Díaz needed some help off the pitch after celebrating with his teammates following a 5-2 win over the Dominican Republic.
He seemed unable to put weight on his right leg before being guided into a wheelchair and down the tunnel.
The star pitcher hit the side in the bottom of the ninth to wrap up the win.
With this win, Puerto Rico clinched their ticket to the quarter-finals, where they will face Mexico on Saturday.
Athletic’s instant analysis:
How could the Mets adapt without Díaz?
It’s no mistake that Díaz was the first element of New York’s offseason spending spree, returning to the club with the richest contract ever given to a reliever. He won every part of that deal as the closest and most efficient in the game in 2022, and he showcased that form again Wednesday night moments before hitting the turf.
The Mets pride themselves on their depth, but Díaz is by far the most irreplaceable member of their bullpen. Should he run out of time, New York can turn to veterans Adam Ottavino and David Robertson to share closing duties.