BREAKING: Star closer Edwin Diaz is set to pitch for Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC), a significant comeback three years after suffering a devastating knee injury during the last tournament. This urgent announcement was made on Monday, igniting excitement and hope among fans as the tournament approaches, running from March 6 to March 11 at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan.
Diaz, who signed a spectacular three-year, $69 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the offseason, missed the entirety of the 2023 season after tearing his patellar tendon while celebrating Puerto Rico’s victory over the Dominican Republic. This injury not only sidelined him but also raised significant financial implications for his former team, the New York Mets, who were relieved of his salary due to insurance coverage.
However, the excitement surrounding Diaz’s return is overshadowed by escalating insurance issues affecting several key players on the Puerto Rican team. Notably, team captain Francisco Lindor has been denied coverage due to a recent elbow procedure, despite expectations of his full participation in spring training. Lindor is actively seeking alternative coverage through a private insurer, as rosters are due on Tuesday, with official announcements expected Thursday night.
This insurance dilemma extends beyond Lindor, impacting other prominent players including Carlos Correa, catcher Victor Caratini, and pitchers Emilio Pagan, Jose Berrios, and Alexis Diaz. The president of the Puerto Rico Baseball Federation, Dr. Jose Quiles, is reportedly contemplating withdrawing from the tournament due to these complications.
The stakes are high as Puerto Rico looks to solidify its roster, with Diaz leading the charge as one of the sport’s elite closers. Despite a year away from the game, the 31-year-old has tallied 201 saves since 2018, ranking fourth in the majors. His last season with the Mets in 2025 saw him convert 28 of 31 save opportunities, boasting an impressive 1.63 ERA and striking out 98 batters over 66.1 innings.
In a related development, Jose Altuve, another star player injured during the previous WBC, is also facing issues securing insurance to participate for Venezuela this year, despite being cleared for full activity in spring training. This situation has prompted the tournament’s insurance provider to impose stricter guidelines, affecting several players, including Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas, who is ineligible for coverage due to a new provision concerning age limits.
As the clock ticks down to the WBC, the Puerto Rican team is at a critical juncture. The emotional impact of these developments is palpable, with fans and players alike hoping for a resolution. The situation remains fluid, and all eyes will be on the final roster announcements as Puerto Rico aims to field its best team despite these challenges.
Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds, and follow the latest developments leading up to this highly anticipated tournament.
