Mets Owner Perplexed by Diaz's Departure to Dodgers

Steve Cohen says he was surprised by star closer's decision to sign with Los Angeles

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mets owner Steve Cohen expressed confusion over star closer Edwin Diaz's decision to leave the team and sign a three-year, $69 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers this offseason. Cohen said he thought the Mets made a "pretty respectable bid" to retain Diaz, who had spent the past seven seasons in New York, but the three-time All-Star opted to join the two-time defending World Series champions instead.

Why it matters

Diaz's departure is part of a broader overhaul of the Mets' roster after the team missed the playoffs by one game last season. The loss of Diaz and other key players like Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo has created uneasiness for Cohen, who had developed close relationships with the players since taking over the team.

The details

Diaz signed with the Dodgers despite the Mets offering him a contract that was only $3 million less. Diaz said his decision wasn't about the money, but rather about joining a "winning organization." The Mets were prepared for Diaz's potential exit, having already signed closer Devin Williams to a three-year, $51 million deal.

  • Diaz signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers this offseason.
  • The Mets offered Diaz a contract that was $3 million less than the Dodgers' deal.

The players

Steve Cohen

The owner of the New York Mets.

Edwin Diaz

A three-time All-Star closer who spent the past seven seasons with the Mets before signing with the Dodgers this offseason.

Devin Williams

A relief pitcher the Mets signed to a three-year, $51 million contract as insurance in case Diaz left the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I did find that one perplexing. I'm not sure exactly how Edwin arrived at that decision. Obviously, it's a personal decision on his part and I thought we made a pretty respectable bid.”

— Steve Cohen, Mets Owner (New York Post)

“It wasn't easy. I spent seven years in New York — they treated me great. I chose the Dodgers because they're a winning organization. I'm looking to win, and I think they have everything to win, so picking the Dodgers was pretty easy.”

— Edwin Diaz (New York Post)

What’s next

The Mets will look to Devin Williams to fill the closer role vacated by Diaz's departure.

The takeaway

Diaz's decision to leave the Mets for the Dodgers, despite a competitive offer from New York, highlights the challenges teams face in retaining star players and the importance of having contingency plans in place.