Representing your country on the world's stage can end up being the biggest opportunity of someone’s life. For the Mets’ Edwin Diaz, his triumph lead to a moment of horrible embarrassment, and the loss of an entire season of baseball. It was all because of one thing: Celebration.

The Incident

On March 15, 2023, after leading Puerto Rico to a glorious victory in the World Baseball Classic, closing pitcher Edwin Diaz was overcome with joy. Then, in a chaotic frenzy, his PR teammates rushed him to help him celebrate. They were jumping  in celebration, when Diaz landed awkwardly, and suffered an injury to his right leg. He had to be removed from the field via wheelchair. ESPN reported that Diaz tore the patellar tendon in his right knee. Because of this, he was going to miss the entire 2023 season.

Patellar Tendonitis

The patellar tendon is a tissue band below your knee cap (the patella) that extends to the top of our shin (tibia). It plays a vital role in extending your knee. This affects activities such as standing, sitting, walking, running, jumping crouching, and kicking.

Patellar tendonitis or other injuries usually occur when intense movements (such as jumping in Diaz’ case) gradually weaken the patellar tendon in your knee. This can occur either over time or all at once.

Treatment for a patellar tear can include:

• Medications such as: Aleve. Advil, Motrin B, and others will help with pain management.
• Physical therapy. This might include use of a patellar tendon medical strap, strengthening exercises, and stretching exercises.
• Iontophoresis: a form of physical therapy in which weak electrical currents are passed through the skin to stimulate the area and treat inflammation.
• Injections: such as corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma injections.
• Rest.
• Avoiding physical activities.
• Applying ice.
• When the situation calls for it, surgery is a common solution. It is often performed in tandem with physical therapy and medications.

Dire Straits

Before the injury, he was on top of the world. In 2022, Diaz won both the Cy Young and MVP awards after saving 32 games in a single season while maintaining a 1.31 ERA.

Suddenly, the Mets were stuck without their star pitcher. This set a gloom over the franchise and fans. Their game closer, who would rile up the fans with his trademark trumpet theme , was set to miss the entire upcoming 2023 season. The team had been on a roll, and were in the midst of an incredibly successful rebuild era. This injury would throw the Mets’ short term future into question.

The Comeback

On March 16^th, 2023, Edwin Diaz successfully underwent surgery to repair his patellar tendon. From that point on, it was only a matter of time until he got to play again. His absence was felt, as the Mets had a tragically disappointing 2023 season without him.

After almost a year and a half away from baseball, on July 6^th, 2024, Edwin Diaz closed out a scoreless 9^th inning against the Pittsburg Pirates. The Mets won 5-2. They were back in action.

The 2024 season was an almost perfect underdog story for the Mets. Led by Coach Carlos Mendoza, a brand new manager in his first year in the position, and on a team full of rookies and vets, Diaz helped the Mets get into the National League Championship Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the Mets were unable to make it to the World Series, they reminded the entire world why they are one of the most beloved franchises in the world.

The Future

Nothing is ever certain in the future of baseball. One minute you’re sidelined for a year, and the next, you’re heading to the finals. Edwin Diaz has a bright future. Despite his  injury, he was able to come back as a star. If he keeps this up, he could end up in the hall of fame.

To avoid serious injury and prolong your baseball career, visit Healthpointe today.

Healthpointe specializes in physical healthcare, and we have an extensive roster of board certified physicians who are well suited to help with pain management. Our team can help assist you with prevention and treatment of a variety of ailments. Fill out this form to set up an appointment.

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