On Tuesday, free agent reliever Edwin Díaz signed a record-setting three-year, $69 million deal with the Dodgers that stands as the new gold standard when it comes to reliever contracts.
Closer Edwin Díaz's deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers is for three years and $69 million, sources tell ESPN. The Dodgers, who were targeting bullpen help this winter, got the best closer on the market, setting a new AAV record for relievers.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 9, 2025
Even though Díaz’s previous contract with the Mets was for a larger amount ($102 million over five years), Díaz’s new contract has an AAV of $23 million, which will now stand out as the north star for every closer reliever seeking a new deal in free agency.