Headlines

  • Evan Longoria To Sign One-Day Contract, Retire As Member Of Rays
  • Diamondbacks To Promote Jordan Lawlar
  • Rockies Fire Bud Black
  • Cubs Promote Cade Horton
  • Rafael Devers Unwilling To Play First Base
  • Pirates Fire Manager Derek Shelton
  • Previous
  • Next
Register
Login
  • Hoops Rumors
  • Pro Football Rumors
  • Pro Hockey Rumors

MLB Trade Rumors

  • Home
  • Teams
    • AL East
      • Baltimore Orioles
      • Boston Red Sox
      • New York Yankees
      • Tampa Bay Rays
      • Toronto Blue Jays
    • AL Central
      • Chicago White Sox
      • Cleveland Guardians
      • Detroit Tigers
      • Kansas City Royals
      • Minnesota Twins
    • AL West
      • Houston Astros
      • Los Angeles Angels
      • Oakland Athletics
      • Seattle Mariners
      • Texas Rangers
    • NL East
      • Atlanta Braves
      • Miami Marlins
      • New York Mets
      • Philadelphia Phillies
      • Washington Nationals
    • NL Central
      • Chicago Cubs
      • Cincinnati Reds
      • Milwaukee Brewers
      • Pittsburgh Pirates
      • St. Louis Cardinals
    • NL West
      • Arizona Diamondbacks
      • Colorado Rockies
      • Los Angeles Dodgers
      • San Diego Padres
      • San Francisco Giants
  • About
    • MLB Trade Rumors
    • Tim Dierkes
    • Writing team
    • Advertise
    • Archives
  • Contact
  • Tools
    • 2024-25 MLB Free Agent List
    • 2025-26 MLB Free Agent List
    • 2024-25 Top 50 MLB Free Agents With Predictions
    • Projected Arbitration Salaries For 2025
    • Free Agent Contest Leaderboard
    • Contract Tracker
    • Transaction Tracker
    • Agency Database
  • NBA/NFL/NHL
    • Hoops Rumors
    • Pro Football Rumors
    • Pro Hockey Rumors
  • App
  • Chats
Go To Pro Hockey Rumors
Go To Hoops Rumors

The Opener: WBC, Diaz, Offseason In Review

By Nick Deeds | March 16, 2023 at 8:55am CDT

With just two weeks to go until Opening Day, here are three things we’ll be keeping an eye on around the baseball world throughout the day today:

1. WBC Update

The first round of the World Baseball Classic is officially in the books, with Cuba, Italy, Japan, Australia, Mexico, the United States, Venezuela, and Puerto Rico advancing to the quarterfinals, which have already begun. Cuba defeated Australia yesterday to advance to the semifinal round, while Japan advanced past Italy this morning. While no other matches will happen today, the other two quarterfinal matchups are now set, with Team Mexico squaring off against Team Puerto Rico tomorrow night while Team USA is set to take on Team Venezuela Saturday night. Of course, the biggest story of the WBC yesterday followed Puerto Rico’s upset victory that sent home the tournament favorites from the Dominican Republic.

2. Diaz Injury Update Incoming

That story is Edwin Diaz’s right knee injury, which he seemingly suffered during the celebration of Team Puerto Rico’s victory last night. The Mets announced last night that Diaz will undergo additional imaging today after receiving x-rays last night, meaning an update on Diaz could be coming as soon as later this morning. Until then, it’s unknown how much time Diaz will miss, though sources have told ESPN’s Jeff Passan that they fear Diaz is set to miss significant time. If Diaz misses significant time, that will obviously be a massive blow to the Mets’ bullpen, as Diaz is widely seen as the best closer in the entire sport.

3. Offseason in Review Chat Today

In conjunction with yesterday’s Reds Offseason in Review, MLBTR’s Anthony Franco will be hosting a Reds-centric live chat with readers today at 2pm CT. You can click here to submit a question in advance, and that same link will take you to the chat once it begins, or allow you to read the transcript once it’s complete. Be sure to check back throughout the day so you don’t miss Anthony’s chat!

Share 0 Retweet 3 Send via email0

The Opener

Edwin Diaz Helped Off Field With Right Knee Injury
Main
Cade Cavalli To Undergo Tommy John Surgery
View Comments (36)
Post a Comment

36 Comments

  1. Ty-food

    2 years ago

    I wonder if contractual language involving the WBC and injuries occurring while playing for another team could end up voiding a contract or at least voiding a season of pay? Not necessarily in Diaz’s contract, but future contacts?

    Reply
    • mitchladd

      2 years ago

      No way the union goes for that considering this is something really wanted and actively encourages current players to participate in .

      16
      Reply
      • Lets Go DBacks

        2 years ago

        Don’t forget that the WBC is an MLB tournament either. It’s part of MLB’s strategy of promoting baseball world wide and expanding markets.
        The WBSC allows the winner to be crowned as “world champion” but WBSC has nothing else to do with the Classic. It’s an MLB show.

        8
        Reply
        • avenger65

          2 years ago

          Even if it’s a MLB tournament (which it’s not), what idiot would void Diaz’ contract?

          1
          Reply
        • RunDMC

          2 years ago

          Yeah, even trying to void that contract would be really bad optics. While I hope he’s out only the minimal amount of time (if not at all, which doesn’t look possible), that’s a record-setting deal for the best closer in MLB — and it’s not an arm injury, fwiw. NYM will most likely try and recoup as much as they can for missed time via insurance – as they should – and plan accordingly.

          I wonder though, had this happened a few days earlier, would they have been courting Bauer to add to depth in rotation and/or use him at the end backend?

          1
          Reply
        • elmedius

          2 years ago

          Take it as you may, no one was touching Bauer this year. He made the right call to go overseas and try to show MLB teams that he’s worth the media headache. Also, don’t forget he was one of the most vocal advocates of grip aids on social media and has yet to prove what his stuff and spin rates look like in a sustained way post crack down.

          1
          Reply
    • sheagoodbye

      2 years ago

      I’m not so sure. If they could limit the language to such celebrations, why make it a deal-breaker? Injuries which occur on the field are fine. Injuries that occur through reckless (though common) post-game celebrations are a different matter.

      Although even then, I wouldn’t go so far as to void one or more seasons.

      Reply
    • BlueBleeder

      2 years ago

      The teams have insurance to cover players getting injured in the WBC. That is why Kershaw couldn’t play. The Dodgers were unable to get an insurance policy on him.

      3
      Reply
  2. RunDMC

    2 years ago

    That David Robertson pickup is big.

    4
    Reply
    • Rsox

      2 years ago

      Robertson has managed 77 total appearance over the past 4 years, thats a tough crutch to lean on. I think re-signing Ottavino now looks huge for this bullpen

      2
      Reply
      • RunDMC

        2 years ago

        If Dîaz is out most of the year, there’s not one guy at this point they’ll be able to totally depend on. True, this also makes the Ottavino re-signing important, as he’ll have a key setup role. Would be interesting if they bring Zach Britton in and possibly have a Robertson/Britton committee role. They wouldn’t be leaning too heavy on either one, and you’ll know that that team will have plenty of SV opps, while each also providing a setup/mop-up role to get IP when not closing.

        1
        Reply
        • Rsox

          2 years ago

          Now we know Diaz will miss most of the season (if they are absent lucky he may be able to return in late September) so i would think they must at least kick the tires on Britton.

          Reply
  3. mitchladd

    2 years ago

    something the commissioner’s office really wanted*

    Reply
  4. CC Ryder

    2 years ago

    Maybe an injury of significant magnitude will put an end to a needless tournament

    1
    Reply
    • GareBear

      2 years ago

      Loser mindset

      2
      Reply
  5. Old York

    2 years ago

    Ohtani looks a bit human today with Italy getting a few runs off him and him struggling in the 5th. Couldn’t even get through 5 innings on 71 pitches. Also concerning that Darvish pitched 2 innings and gave up a run. All against a #16 ranked team. Should be interesting how they fare against actual good teams like the U.S., PR and Venezuela.

    Reply
    • RunDMC

      2 years ago

      Didn’t he get up to 102-mph though? I don’t recall him throwing that hard.

      Reply
      • Old York

        2 years ago

        @RunDMC

        Yes, he did. on one pitch.

        Reply
    • Marlins_Fan

      2 years ago

      Ohtani’s next contract will be an albatross contract. Awful.

      Reply
  6. raregokus

    2 years ago

    No MLB player is playing in this only a couple weeks after finishing a 162 game season (plus playoff games). This time of year is the only logical time you could hold the tournament.

    3
    Reply
    • mitchladd

      2 years ago

      that, but I believe part of the reason was to work around the schedule of some of the Asian leagues so their players can participate.

      Reply
  7. Robrock30

    2 years ago

    youtube.com/watch?v=nQ7Nz81TgGQ

    Reply
  8. Marlins_Fan

    2 years ago

    If any player is injured during this nonsense (the World Baseball “Classic”), their MLB teams should be completely off the hook for it.

    4
    Reply
    • mitchladd

      2 years ago

      Why? it’s an MLB sponsored tournament. the league and owners are making money off it and attempting to grow the sport with it. plus, you start screwing around with contracts because of the WBC and watch zero professional players participate.

      2
      Reply
  9. Unclemike1525

    2 years ago

    Oh boy the Reds chat. I wonder if both of their fans will be there? Can’t wait. Can’t we just do the Reds, A’s , and Pirates chats all at once? You know save some time. Might get 10 people there.

    1
    Reply
    • JoelP

      2 years ago

      The Reds outdrew Baltimore, Cleveland, Miami, Tampa, Pittsburgh, Oakland, and KC. They have fans. It’s okay if you or I are not one, but as a baseball fan, I have interest in all 30 teams. Obviously some more than others. Relax my man. There are bigger things in the world.

      4
      Reply
      • Unclemike1525

        2 years ago

        That’s OK. I’ll pass. In fact I’d rather light myself on fire and jog through a Meth Lab.

        Reply
        • Hammerin' Hank

          2 years ago

          This chat belongs to the Reds.

          1
          Reply
  10. gregpitikus

    2 years ago

    Why is everyone talking about shutting down/stopping players from playing in the WBC, rather than just stopping (or at least channeling the enthusiasm slightly differently in) the over-the-top celebrations/dogpiles?

    1
    Reply
  11. Rsox

    2 years ago

    Maybe the WBC should be for minor leaguers to represent their countries over players with $100+ million dollar contracts. I don’t know, i know this falls under the “freak accident” category but a prolonged absence by Diaz is going to be devastating for the Mets

    Reply
  12. Spaced-Cowboy

    2 years ago

    Kendrys Morales wants a word

    3
    Reply
    • gregpitikus

      2 years ago

      As does Cody Bellinger’s shoulder.

      2
      Reply
  13. CardsFan57

    2 years ago

    More players have been injured in spring training games than in the WBC. There’s no more risk at the WBC than any other games. We get it. You hate the tournament.

    Void contracts? What part of MLB sanctioned do you not understand?

    2
    Reply
  14. stymeedone

    2 years ago

    Simple solution, that of course would not be accepted. Team signs player to contract. Player is invited to play in WBC. Player must sign waiver that covers half his salary if something happens. Team takes half the risk. Player takes half the risk. If the player doesn’t want to sign, he doesn’t play, but it’s his choice. Waiver is only for the period missed

    Reply
    • mitchladd

      2 years ago

      Why would the players agree to that? WBC is an MLB sponsored tournament so the league and the owners are making money off of it and it was their idea to begin with as a way to grow the game. all you’ll end up with is no MLB players in the tournament.

      2
      Reply
  15. venezolano1969

    2 years ago

    I’m pretty sure the Marlins owner is wondering why can’t Marlins games draw as many people and create the same atmosphere as the WBC games?

    2
    Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Please login to leave a reply.

Log in Register

ad: 300x250_1_MLB

  • Top Stories
  • Recent

Evan Longoria To Sign One-Day Contract, Retire As Member Of Rays

Diamondbacks To Promote Jordan Lawlar

Rockies Fire Bud Black

Cubs Promote Cade Horton

Rafael Devers Unwilling To Play First Base

Pirates Fire Manager Derek Shelton

Mariners Claim Leody Taveras

Rangers Hire Bret Boone As Hitting Coach

A.J. Minter To Undergo Season-Ending Lat Surgery

Blue Jays Sign Spencer Turnbull

Blue Jays Sign José Ureña

Ross Stripling Retires

Rangers Place Leody Taveras On Outright Waivers

Triston Casas Likely To Miss Entire 2025 Season Due To Knee Surgery

Orioles Recall Coby Mayo

Dodgers Recall Hyeseong Kim

Triston Casas Suffers “Significant Knee Injury”

Angels Place Mike Trout On 10-Day Injured List

Rangers Option Jake Burger

Tigers Designate Kenta Maeda For Assignment

Brandon Woodruff Pulled Off Rehab Assignment Due To Ankle Injury

Blue Jays Outright Dillon Tate

Ronald Acuña Jr. To Begin Rehab Assignment

Dodgers Acquire Steward Berroa

Diamondbacks Designate Garrett Hampson, José Castillo For Assignment

Guardians Option Brayan Rocchio

Trade Rumors Front Office Subscriber Chat Transcript

Evan Longoria To Sign One-Day Contract, Retire As Member Of Rays

White Sox Designate Gage Workman For Assignment

Dodgers Notes: Phillips, Edman, Hernández

ad: 300x250_5_side_mlb

MLBTR Newsletter - Hot stove highlights in your inbox, five days a week

Latest Rumors & News

Latest Rumors & News

  • 2024-25 Top 50 MLB Free Agents With Predictions
  • Nolan Arenado Rumors
  • Dylan Cease Rumors
  • Luis Robert Rumors
  • Marcus Stroman Rumors

 

Trade Rumors App for iOS and Android

MLBTR Features

MLBTR Features

  • Remove Ads, Support Our Writers
  • Front Office Originals
  • Front Office Fantasy Baseball
  • MLBTR Podcast
  • 2024-25 Offseason Outlook Series
  • 2025 Arbitration Projections
  • 2024-25 MLB Free Agent List
  • 2025-26 MLB Free Agent List
  • Contract Tracker
  • Transaction Tracker
  • Extension Tracker
  • Agency Database
  • MLBTR On Twitter
  • MLBTR On Facebook
  • Team Facebook Pages
  • How To Set Up Notifications For Breaking News
  • Hoops Rumors
  • Pro Football Rumors
  • Pro Hockey Rumors

Rumors By Team

  • Angels Rumors
  • Astros Rumors
  • Athletics Rumors
  • Blue Jays Rumors
  • Braves Rumors
  • Brewers Rumors
  • Cardinals Rumors
  • Cubs Rumors
  • Diamondbacks Rumors
  • Dodgers Rumors
  • Giants Rumors
  • Guardians Rumors
  • Mariners Rumors
  • Marlins Rumors
  • Mets Rumors
  • Nationals Rumors
  • Orioles Rumors
  • Padres Rumors
  • Phillies Rumors
  • Pirates Rumors
  • Rangers Rumors
  • Rays Rumors
  • Red Sox Rumors
  • Reds Rumors
  • Rockies Rumors
  • Royals Rumors
  • Tigers Rumors
  • Twins Rumors
  • White Sox Rumors
  • Yankees Rumors

ad: 160x600_MLB

Navigation

  • Sitemap
  • Archives
  • RSS/Twitter Feeds By Team

MLBTR INFO

  • Advertise
  • About
  • Commenting Policy
  • Privacy Policy

Connect

  • Contact Us
  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • RSS Feed

MLB Trade Rumors is not affiliated with Major League Baseball, MLB or MLB.com

hide arrows scroll to top

Register

Desktop Version | Switch To Mobile Version