New York Mets Closer Diaz Not Ruling Out 2023 Return

NEW YORK - He could be back in 2023.

Despite tearing his patellar tendon during the World Baseball Classic, New York Mets elite closer Edwin Diaz is not ruling out a return to the mound this season.

"If everything keeps going how it's going, we've got a chance to pitch," Diaz told The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal. "The trainers and doctors will decide, but I feel great. Let's see what's coming for us."

Diaz injured his knee celebrating a victory after he closed things out for Team Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. This was on March 15, and the following day is when he underwent surgery.

The initial prognosis of Diaz's injury was that it was season-ending. Mets general manager Billy Eppler said the general recovery period is eight months, but in some cases athletes have been able to return in six months. However, “those are a little bit more of the exception than the rule.”

While it remains to be seen whether Diaz will be able to make it back this season, It's a positive sign that his knee has been responding well to exercise. The next big step for Diaz will be beginning a throwing program, but It's unknown when this will occur.

Diaz, 29, had a phenomenal campaign for the Mets in 2022, posting a 1.31 ERA, 0.90 FIP, recording 32 saves and striking out 118 batters in 62 innings. The flame-throwing righty notched his second All-Star nod, and also won National League Reliever of the Year.

This helped Diaz earn a five-year, $102 million contract to remain in Queens in the offseason.

The Mets are 29-27 to start the 2023 season. With Diaz out, David Robertson has stepped up in the closer's role and has been lights out, posting a 1.48 ERA and 10 saves.