Edwin Díaz, recently signed by the Los Angeles Dodgers, has confirmed his participation in the upcoming World Baseball Classic despite a serious injury he suffered during the previous tournament in 2023. The decision has reignited debate over whether prominent MLB players should risk injury by joining international events, especially with the Dodgers preparing for their 2026 regular season title defense.
Teammates Share Perspectives on Díaz’s Return to WBC
Díaz’s teammate Kiké Hernández shared his views on Díaz’s commitment to pitch for Puerto Rico again. Hernández acknowledged the risks involved but emphasized the deep significance of representing their home country.
If (Díaz had said no), I wouldn’t have been surprised,
Kiké Hernández said.
“He’s risking a lot by playing in the tournament, especially given what happened in the previous one. But as a fellow Puerto Rican, those games just mean so much to us, being able to wear that uniform.”
I wasn’t surprised, because it was a freak injury, that he was willing to do it all over again,
Hernández added, as reported by Katie Woo of The Athletic.
Díaz Responds to Criticism Over His Past Injury
Edwin Díaz addressed critics who questioned his choice to participate again after his injury in 2023. He clarified that the injury did not happen while pitching but during a celebration following Puerto Rico’s victory.
I have only one response for that,
Díaz stated.
I didn’t get hurt pitching. It was after the game. That could have happened to me anywhere. If I got hurt pitching, it’s different. But I was just trying to celebrate.
The Potential Impact on the Dodgers’ Season
Last season, the Dodgers’ pitching roster was plagued by injuries, making Díaz’s health a key concern as he prepares to pitch in the WBC once more. The team will be hoping that this time he remains fully fit, especially with the regular MLB season starting soon and the pressure to defend their World Series title mounting.
