Dodgers Sign Díaz to 3-Year, $69M Deal

The Los Angeles Dodgers bolstered their bullpen by signing free-agent closer Edwin Díaz to a three-year, $69 million contract last week, capping a competitive pursuit that included a five-year offer from the Atlanta Braves. The deal, which includes a conditional option for a fourth year, reunites Díaz with the Dodgers, where he previously played, and sets a new benchmark for relief pitchers with an average annual value of $23 million.

Díaz, a three-time All-Star who rejected a qualifying offer from the New York Mets, had sought a longer-term pact closer to five years and $100 million entering the offseason. The Braves' proposal, details of which remain undisclosed, demonstrated their aggressive approach to rebuilding after a disappointing season marred by injuries. Although the offer fell short of swaying Díaz, it highlighted Atlanta's willingness to forfeit draft capital, including their 26th overall pick in next year's draft acquired through the Prospect Promotion Incentive for rookie standout Drake Baldwin.

Undeterred, the Braves quickly pivoted, signing reliever Robert Suárez to a three-year, $45 million deal just two days after Díaz's commitment. Suárez, an All-Star with...