Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz has addressed reports linking him to cockfighting in Puerto Rico, stating he has engaged in no illegal activity and has not been contacted by Major League Baseball (MLB) concerning the matter. Díaz made these remarks on Sunday, speaking for the first time since a report surfaced earlier in the season.
"I’m concentrated to help this team to win, concentrated to be back ready as soon as possible," Díaz said, following his first live batting practice session since undergoing a procedure in April to remove loose bodies from his elbow. "I’m not thinking too much about that. That’s a past story."
A USA Today story published in May detailed Díaz's alleged involvement, noting he was photographed at a cockfighting club and that his image was used in promotional material for the establishment. Cockfighting has been banned in all U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico, since 2019. However, attempts have been made by local officials on the island to create exceptions for the practice, which has historical roots there.
"Like I said in the story, that’s legal in Puerto Rico," Díaz reiterated.
Given the cultural complexities, an investigation by MLB into the situation was considered unlikely. Díaz expressed no concern about potential repercussions, stating, "The league didn’t reach out to me because I wasn’t doing nothing illegal. At the end of the day, I’m looking to help this team to win."
Díaz has been sidelined since his elbow procedure in April. He has been progressing through his throwing program, with Sunday’s live batting practice marking a significant milestone. "It felt great," he said. "Finally back on the mound, throwing, it feels really good. Was throwing good pitches. So it’s a good step."
Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Díaz is scheduled for a minor-league rehab assignment soon and remains on track to return after the All-Star break. The 32-year-old pitcher struggled earlier this season with an elbow issue, posting a 10.50 ERA in his first seven appearances before the problem was diagnosed. He expressed confidence that these struggles are now behind him, stating, "I feel really good. I feel way better than early in the season."