Closer Edwin Diaz will take the mound and face major league hitters for the first time since he was hurt in the World Baseball Classic. The right-hander, who has a limit of 20 pitches, will make his spring debut on Monday at Clover Park against the Miami Marlins, according to Mets manager Carlos Mendoza.
Mendoza stated at a news conference on Sunday, “I think it’s important for all of us, obviously for him, that he gets to pitch in a major league game for the first time after a long year of rehab.” “We’re excited to watch him pitch.” In two simulated minor league games last week, Diaz pitched in the backfield. On Tuesday, he struck out the side on 14 pitches to end the first game, and on Friday, he did the same.
“After the latter appearance, we asked him to stay out there for a fourth batter,” Mendoza remarked. “Nevertheless, he was competent. He moved at a good speed. He made some excellent sliders, so this was just another positive step in the right direction.”
All I feel is the need for competition. I’m all set. “I’m pitching like I want to,” Diaz declared on Tuesday. “Today was excellent, and I just need games. I informed them after my most recent live [BP] that I wanted to [up] my level of competition and see what it was like to be in a genuine game.” On March 16, 2023, at the World Baseball Classic, Diaz tore his right patellar tendon, ending his season. Without him, the Mets’ bullpen performed terribly, compiling an ERA of 4.48. But as Diaz gets closer to full fitness, the Mets should be optimistic about their chances of contending for a postseason berth, provided that their star closer has a totally healthy season.
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