Díaz plans return to Dodgers closer role as Ohtani nears pitching comeback
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 10:02 PM
Last updated Aug 23, 2026

Edwin Díaz, recovering from neck inflammation, is expected to return from the injured list when eligible in early September. After a challenging season with a high ERA and several blown saves, he aims to regain his closer position. Shohei Ohtani, sidelined since July due to a knee injury, is set to throw in a bullpen session during the Braves series starting Tuesday, with hopes of returning to pitching soon. Ohtani has excelled this season with a strong ERA and multiple strikeouts. Dodgers player Andy Pages recently underwent surgery on a broken hand but may still return before the end of the regular season.
- •Díaz has a 11.85 ERA and four blown saves this season.
- •Ohtani is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85 2/3 innings.
- •Andy Pages had surgery on a fractured left hand but may return this season.
- •Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicates Díaz will not be used immediately as closer.
- •Ohtani's bullpen session is planned during the Braves series starting Tuesday.
- 10:02 PMYahoo Sports — Díaz will fight to regain closer role for Dodgers, while Ohtani trends toward return to mound
"Díaz is feeling better after coming out of his relief appearance against the Colorado Rockies last Monday with neck inflammation.
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