Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Díaz will not return to his role as the team’s closer when he comes off the injured list, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed. Díaz, who has struggled this season, will instead be used in lower-stakes situations to rebuild confidence before the postseason.
Tanner Scott has been named the Dodgers’ closer in Díaz’s absence. Díaz, who signed a three-year, $69 million deal in the offseason, has posted a career-worst 11.85 ERA and converted just seven of 11 save opportunities in 16 appearances. He was placed on the injured list in late August with a neck issue and is expected to return within a week.
Roberts stated the decision was made to prioritize Díaz’s recovery and gradual reintegration. “I think it’s more of getting him back healthy and then putting him in some softer-landing situations to get the confidence, to get the feel and the trust of executing pitches,” Roberts said. Scott, who was also signed to be the closer, has thrived in the role this season, posting a 4.74 ERA in 57 innings.
Díaz acknowledged his struggles, telling reporters, “I know I haven’t done my job. If I had done my job, I would be in the ninth inning.” He expressed support for Scott, saying, “He’s doing a great job. I’m really happy for him.” Díaz underwent an MRI on his neck, which revealed no abnormalities, and is working with coaches to adjust his delivery.
The Dodgers signed Díaz as their closer before the season, but an early elbow injury sidelined him from April to late July. Upon his return, he struggled, blowing three saves and recording two shaky outings in non-save situations. His neck issue, which arose after a game against the Colorado Rockies, further delayed his recovery.
Díaz’s adjustment involves raising his arm slot, which coaches believe will improve consistency. “They showed me a couple videos from last year — my arm slot’s always a little low,” he said. “We’re working now to get it higher and more consistent in that position.” The team’s goal remains to restore Díaz to his closer role if he regains form in lower-leverage situations.