Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz has returned from the injured list, looking to reclaim his spot in the bullpen as the postseason approaches. Activated on September 18, 2026, after a month-long absence due to neck inflammation, Díaz faces a steep challenge to prove his worth for October.
Why it matters: Díaz’s return is a key moment for the Dodgers as they prepare for the playoffs. His performance could significantly influence the team's bullpen strategy and postseason success.
Díaz signed a three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers last offseason, expected to be a dominant closer.
His activation comes with just over a week left in the regular season, providing limited opportunities to showcase his skills.
The Dodgers clinched their 13th National League West title in 14 seasons, allowing them to evaluate players for the postseason roster.
Driving the news: The Dodgers activated Díaz from the 15-day IL, where he had been sidelined since August 18 due to neck issues. Right-hander Landon Knack was optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma City to make room for Díaz.
Díaz pitched a scoreless ninth inning in an 8-2 victory over the San Francisco Giants shortly after his activation.
In that outing, he averaged 97.6 mph on his four-seamer, reaching a max of 98.7 mph, showing signs of his previous form.
Manager Dave Roberts noted that the sizeable lead allowed Díaz to ease back into action without the pressure of high-leverage situations.
State of play: This season has been tumultuous for Díaz, who has struggled to find consistency. He began the year strong but faced setbacks that led to multiple injuries.
In 16 appearances this season, Díaz has recorded a disappointing 11.85 ERA, with seven earned runs allowed in his first seven outings.
Following surgery in April to remove loose bodies from his right elbow, his performance declined, leading to a 12.91 ERA in nine games post-recovery.
During his recent rehab stint, Díaz struggled with command, issuing seven walks and hitting a batter in 4 1/3 innings.
The big picture: As the Dodgers gear up for the playoffs, they are evaluating their bullpen options closely. Díaz's performance will be under scrutiny as he attempts to secure a spot on the postseason roster.
Roberts emphasized the need for Díaz to throw quality strikes to regain the trust of the coaching staff.
Díaz must outperform others vying for the same role, as the Dodgers have several pitchers competing for postseason spots.
With the postseason on the horizon, every outing counts for Díaz, who aims to prove he can be a reliable asset in high-pressure situations.
What they're saying: Manager Dave Roberts has expressed cautious optimism about Díaz's return, acknowledging his potential but stressing the need for tangible results.
“Eddie understands that he has to earn the right to opportunities,” Roberts said, highlighting the competitive nature of the bullpen.
Roberts believes that Díaz's mechanical adjustments, particularly with his arm angle and posture, could help him regain his form.
“He needs to pitch well. I think the world of him. The baseball card looks great,” Roberts added, emphasizing the importance of performance over reputation.
By the numbers: Díaz's statistics paint a picture of a pitcher struggling to find his footing this season.
In his first seven games, Díaz allowed seven earned runs in six innings, resulting in a 10.50 ERA.
His post-surgery strikeout rate dropped significantly from 30.3% to 19.6%, well below his career average of 39.9%.
During his rehab assignment, he recorded a troubling 12.46 ERA over 4.1 innings, prompting concerns about his readiness for major league competition.
What's next: With limited time left in the regular season, Díaz has a few opportunities to demonstrate his capabilities.
Díaz is expected to pitch in lower-leverage situations initially, allowing him to build confidence and regain his rhythm.
Roberts indicated that Díaz would be available for subsequent games, potentially as soon as September 19.
As the Dodgers prepare for the playoffs, Díaz must capitalize on these outings to secure his role in the postseason bullpen.