Diaz Navigates Recovery and Past Controversy on Path to Dodgers Return
Edwin Diaz addresses cockfighting as he works – Edwin Diaz has come a long way in twelve months. Just one year prior, the pitcher was showcasing his talents on baseball’s grandest stage, taking the mound for the All-Star Game. Today, the 32-year-old closer is focused on a different kind of performance—working his way back to full health while simultaneously addressing questions about his personal life and past activities.
The Dodgers’ ace has been sidelined following elbow surgery, but his rehabilitation timeline suggests a return to the majors could happen sooner rather than later. Diaz is expected to be ready for action after the All-Star break in July, which would provide a significant boost to Los Angeles as they push toward the postseason.
Addressing Cockfighting Questions
Last week, Diaz found himself fielding questions about recent USA TODAY Sports coverage documenting his involvement in illegal cockfighting. The stories had highlighted both his general participation in the practice and what appeared to be a broader operation connected to him.
When asked about the reports, Diaz offered a straightforward response about his history with the sport in his homeland.
“I think I been doing that before,” Diaz told reporters, referencing cockfighting in Puerto Rico, where he was born and raised. “….but now I’m concentrated to help this team to win. I’m concentrated to be back and ready as soon as possible. So I’m not thinking much on that.”
Diaz emphasized that he believes he has not violated any laws. While he has been associated with cockfighting for years, a federal ban on the practice across all 50 states and U.S. territories officially took effect in Puerto Rico in 2019. The timing of the ban coincided with when some of the reported activities may have occurred, but Diaz maintains his actions were within acceptable bounds.
MLB’s Response and Public Comments
Despite the media attention, Diaz stated that he has not received any communication from the Major League Baseball commissioner’s office regarding the matter. An MLB spokesman confirmed that the league had no formal comment to offer at this time.
These recent public remarks represent Diaz’s first statements on the issue since USA TODAY Sports published their investigative stories. He chose to address the topic while responding to questions following his first rehabilitation stint, demonstrating a willingness to engage with the controversy head-on.
Meanwhile, Diaz’s connection to Puerto Rico’s cockfighting scene appears to extend beyond casual participation. According to a photograph posted on the Club Gallistico’s Facebook page, Diaz is listed among 40 participants for a cockfighting tournament scheduled for Friday, July 17. Attempts to reach the Club Gallistico directly to confirm that the Edwin Diaz listed is indeed the Dodgers pitcher were unsuccessful.
Records show that the name Edwin Diaz has appeared as a participant in tournaments at Club Gallistico of Puerto Rico more than half a dozen times since the Dodgers’ closer was placed on the injured list on April 20.
Rehabilitation Progress and Team Dynamics
On Saturday, Diaz took the mound for the Ontario Tower Buzzers, the Dodgers’ Single-A affiliate located in Southern California. He delivered a scoreless inning of relief work, signaling that his arm is responding well to the rehabilitation program. He is expected to pitch in another minor-league contest as soon as this weekend.
A Dodgers spokesman informed USA TODAY Sports that Diaz would not be answering questions from the publication at this time because he is focused on preparing for his comeback. The pitcher’s priorities are clear: getting healthy and returning to the majors.
Career Context and Contract Details
Diaz’s journey to Los Angeles began after the 2025 season, when he became a free agent. The Dodgers secured his services with a three-year, $69 million contract, banking on his proven track record as one of baseball’s most dominant closers.
Before joining the Dodgers, Diaz spent time with the New York Mets, where he earned All-Star honors for the third time in his career last season. His arrival in Los Angeles was viewed as a major acquisition for a team looking to strengthen its bullpen.
Unfortunately, this season did not start as planned. Diaz accumulated a 10.50 ERA across seven appearances before an elbow injury forced him onto the injured list. In April, he underwent arthroscopic surgery to remove fragments of bone and cartilage from his right elbow, a procedure designed to address the structural issues causing his discomfort.
As Diaz continues his recovery, he remains focused on helping the Dodgers achieve their goals. Whether on the mound or addressing questions about his personal life, the closer is demonstrating the same determination that has defined his career.
