Edwin Díaz has built a reputation as one of baseball’s most electrifying closers, delivering high-velocity fastballs and dominating late innings with steady confidence. Born in Naguabo, Puerto Rico, he rose from a young outfielder to one of the most decorated relief pitchers of his era, earning major league honors across both the American and National Leagues.
Early Life and Beginnings in Baseball
Born Edwin Orlando Díaz Laboy on March 22, 1994, he grew up in the Daguao area of Naguabo. Baseball entered his life early—he began playing around age seven, mostly as a center fielder. His childhood teammates included future MLB stars Carlos Correa and José Berríos.
Díaz only transitioned to pitching in his teens after persistent encouragement from his father, Edwin Díaz Garcia. That push changed his future. His newfound skill on the mound quickly attracted attention, and while attending Caguas Military Academy, he entered the radar of MLB scouts.
Career Breakthrough and MLB Success
The Seattle Mariners selected Díaz as the 98th overall pick in the third round of the 2012 MLB Draft. He started his professional journey the same year with the AZL Mariners, steadily progressing through the minor league system.
His MLB debut came in 2016, and just two months later, he set a Mariners record by striking out 11 consecutive batters. He soon became the team’s full-time closer, ending his rookie season with 18 saves and a fifth-place finish in AL Rookie of the Year voting.
Díaz’s breakout season arrived in 2018, when he posted 57 saves, earned his first All-Star appearance, and won the AL Reliever of the Year.
After being traded to the New York Mets, he only elevated his game. He collected two more All-Star selections, two NL Reliever of the Year awards and two All-MLB Team honors in 2022 and 2025. Known for his consistency and power, he currently holds the MLB record for most Reliever of the Month awards.
The 2025 season showcased peak form: a 1.63 ERA, 0.87 WHIP, 98 strikeouts in 62 games and 28 saves. On November 13, he was named the 2025 National League Reliever of the Year and earned a spot on the All-MLB Second Team.
Net Worth, Ethnicity and Personal Details
As of 2025, Díaz’s net worth is estimated at $20 million, supported by his MLB contracts and endorsements. He is of Puerto Rican ethnicity. His religious beliefs have not been publicly shared.
He stands 6 feet 3 inches, weighs about 165 pounds, and has dark brown hair and brown eyes.
Family: Wife, Kids and Relatives
Díaz is married to Nashaly Mercado, and the couple has two sons, Sebastián and Lucas José. He is the son of Beatriz Laboy Mendez and Edwin Díaz Garcia, and he has a brother, Alexis Díaz, who is also an MLB pitcher.
