Díaz responds to leaving the Mets for the Dodgers: They did an excellent job recruiting me.

Steve Cohen, the Mets’ owner, remains puzzled about why Edwin Díaz decided to sign with the Dodgers. Díaz provided his reasoning during an interview today.

One day after Cohen described Díaz’s decision to sign with the Dodgers as "puzzling," the former Mets closer responded today at the Dodgers’ spring training camp in Glendale, Arizona:

"I’m a free agent and had the opportunity to talk to everyone. The Dodgers did a fantastic job recruiting me. Ultimately, I chose to come here."

"I have great respect for the entire Mets organization — from the players and coaches to the front office. They treated me very well. I have no negative feelings toward them. But in the end, I came here. This is a new chapter in my career, and I’m excited to join the Dodgers. Let’s see what happens next."

A day earlier, the Mets released an interview with broadcaster Howie Rose speaking with Cohen. Discussing Díaz’s decision, Cohen said, "I honestly find the choice confusing. I’m not sure how Edwin made this decision. Obviously, it was his personal choice, and I believe we made a very sincere offer."

According to sources, the Mets offered Díaz a three-year, $66 million contract and were willing to increase the offer further. Díaz ultimately signed a three-year, $69 million deal with the Dodgers, without giving the Mets a chance to match. Another source indicated that Díaz’s camp did not believe the Mets would substantially raise their offer.

Before Díaz signed, the Mets had just secured another top closer, Devin Williams, with a three-year, $51 million contract. When finalizing Williams, the Mets’ management believed he could serve as either a closer or a setup pitcher behind Díaz. Williams himself expressed openness to both roles.

From 2019 to 2025, Díaz served as the Mets’ closer, recording 144 saves with a 2.93 ERA. His energetic entrance music made him a fan favorite. Now, Williams will close games in Queens, while Díaz will handle closing duties for the Dodgers.