Add The California Post on Google Edwin Díaz won’t be the Dodgers’ closer when he returns from the 15-day injured list, but the three-time All-Star said his goal is to work his way back into his customary ninth-inning role.
“That’s why they signed me here, to be the closer,” Díaz said.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz reacts against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona, on Friday, August 7, 2026. (This asset including all text, audio and imagery is provided by Imagn Images. Reuters Connect ha) IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect The $69 million right-hander was placed on the injured list with neck inflammation on Tuesday, a day after he gave up three runs in an 11-5 win over the Rockies.
The game was his ninth since his return from a surgical procedure to remove loose bodies from his elbow.
Díaz is eligible to return from the injured list on Sept. 2, and manager Dave Roberts said his plan was to use him in lower-leverage situations so that he could regain his confidence. Tanner Scott has become the Dodgers’ primary ninth-inning pitcher in Díaz’s absence.
“I’m good with the decision because I know I haven’t done my job,” Díaz said. “If I’d done my job, I’d be pitching in the ninth inning.”
Díaz said his neck bothered him after his appearance on Monday and that the Dodgers sent him to get it checked out to make sure that wasn’t the reason behind his lowered arm slot, which has caused his pitches to flatten out.
“Everything was good,” said Díaz, who threw a bullpen session on Saturday.
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz (3) reacts at the end of the game against the Milwaukee Brewers at Dodger Stadium on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, in Los Angeles. (This asset – including all text, audio and imagery – is provided by Imagn Images. Reuters Connec) IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect Díaz is working with coaches to throw more consistently with an elevated arm angle.
“I think with a good arm angle, my fastball runs way better than [it is] now,” he said.
The ever-positive Díaz said he has managed to remain upbeat but acknowledged he was “a little” frustrated.
“I know the pitcher I am,” he said. “I know when I’m good, I can do really good things. I’m working to come back on in that form.”
