The Los Angeles Dodgers' biggest offseason acquisitions are already making a major impact, as closer Edwin Diaz earned his first save and outfielder Kyle Tucker hit the go-ahead single in a 5-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night at Dodger Stadium.
Diaz, who signed a $69 million, three-year contract with the Dodgers after electrifying New York Mets fans with his performances and entrance music, trotted out to the mound in the ninth inning accompanied by the live trumpet sounds of Tatiana Tate playing his signature song, Timmy Trumpet's "Narcos." Wearing Diaz's No. 3 jersey, Tate added an extra layer of excitement to the closer's debut.
Edwin Diaz Brings Star Power to Dodgers Bullpen
The two-time defending World Series champion Dodgers have been lacking a true closer in recent seasons, instead relying on a bullpen-by-committee approach. Diaz's arrival brings a level of dependability and star power to the back end of the bullpen that the team has been missing since Kenley Jansen's departure.
It's going to be a lot on Sugar because he's going to have to be under a lot of pressure, but he's done it before. He's the right guy for the task.
Manager Dave Roberts played a key role in luring Diaz to Los Angeles, engaging in a 45-minute video call with the right-hander and front office executives. Roberts emphasized the team's winning culture and willingness to do whatever it takes to succeed, which ultimately convinced Diaz and his wife to move west.
Kyle Tucker Makes Immediate Impact in Dodgers Debut
In addition to Diaz's heroics, outfielder Kyle Tucker also made a significant impact in his Dodgers debut. Signed to a $240 million, four-year deal after leaving the Chicago Cubs, Tucker singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning and also stole a base, building on his strong performance from Opening Day.
- Edwin Diaz earns first save in Dodgers debut
- Kyle Tucker hits go-ahead single in 5-4 win over Diamondbacks
- Diaz and Tucker making immediate impact after high-profile offseason acquisitions
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much did Edwin Diaz's contract with the Dodgers cost?
- Edwin Diaz signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers during the 2022-2023 offseason.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was Kyle Tucker's contribution to the Dodgers' win?
- Kyle Tucker singled in the go-ahead run in the eighth inning and stole a base in the Dodgers' 5-4 victory over the Diamondbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who played Edwin Diaz's entrance song at Dodger Stadium?
- Trumpeter Tatiana Tate played Diaz's entrance song, Timmy Trumpet's "Narcos," live from the stands next to the left field bullpen.
