Dodgers plan shifted role for Edwin Diaz upon return from IL
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 22, 2026, 10:47 PM
Last updated Aug 22, 2026
Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz is set to return from the injured list but will not reclaim his closer role. Diaz, who had elbow surgery earlier this season, struggled since his return with a 15.88 ERA in August and reported neck pain, leading to another IL stint. Manager Dave Roberts intends to use him in lower-leverage situations initially to rebuild his confidence and performance. This marks a significant change from his previous closer position last season.
- •Edwin Diaz had elbow surgery and returned in late July.
- •He posted a 15.88 ERA in August with three blown saves.
- •Diaz will be used in lower-leverage situations initially.
- •Manager Dave Roberts emphasizes building Diaz's confidence.
- •Diaz's role change is due to the emergence of Tanner Scott.
- 1:00 AMYahoo Sports — Edwin Diaz Shooting to Reclaim Closer Spot After Neck Injury
- 10:47 PMYahoo Sports — Edwin Diaz Will Have to Earn Back Dodgers Closer Role
"Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz won't immediately return to the closer spot after his neck injury, but his goal is to take it back.
"Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz was signed to be the team's closer, but when he comes back from the injured list, he will not be in that role.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsAug 24, 2026, 1:00 AMEdwin Diaz Shooting to Reclaim Closer Spot After Neck Injury
Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz won't immediately return to the closer spot after his neck injury, but his goal is to take it back.
- Yahoo SportsAug 22, 2026, 10:47 PMEdwin Diaz Will Have to Earn Back Dodgers Closer Role
Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz was signed to be the team's closer, but when he comes back from the injured list, he will not be in that role.
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