In a thrilling start to the 2026 MLB season, Edwin Diaz made his debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 28, 2026, at Dodger Stadium. The excitement was palpable as Diaz earned his first save in a tightly contested game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, which the Dodgers won 5-4.
Diaz, who signed a lucrative three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers after opting out of his previous deal with the Mets, showcased his skills by striking out two batters and walking one in his debut save appearance. Last season, he converted 28 of 31 save chances while playing for the Mets, further solidifying his reputation as a top closer.
Adding to the spectacle, Diaz’s entrance music was performed live by trumpeter Tatiana Tate, creating an electrifying atmosphere that delighted fans. “I was surprised a little bit. I heard a trumpet sounding before I was coming out. I said, ‘No way, they got a live trumpet.’ It was pretty fun,” Diaz remarked after the game.
The Dodgers, who are the two-time defending World Series champions, unveiled their 2025 championship banner on Opening Day, setting the stage for a season filled with high expectations. Manager Dave Roberts expressed his initial doubts about signing Diaz, stating, “Afterwards, I told my wife, ‘We’re going to get him.'” His confidence in the team is evident as he believes they have the potential to achieve a three-peat.
Teammate Miguel Rojas also shared his enthusiasm, noting, “It’s really cool because it’s another way to keep the fans involved in the game until the ninth inning because they’re all going to be waiting for that.” The camaraderie within the team is further highlighted by the presence of Diaz’s brother, Alexis, who joined the Dodgers last May as a reliever.
As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Diaz integrates into the Dodgers’ lineup and contributes to their quest for another championship. His track record of 144 saves with the Mets speaks volumes about his capabilities on the mound.
With the excitement of his debut still fresh, Diaz’s journey with the Dodgers promises to be a remarkable one, filled with memorable moments and the potential for greatness.
