Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz stated his intention to regain the closer role upon his return from the injured list, despite manager Dave Roberts' plan to utilize him in lower-leverage situations. Díaz, who was placed on the 15-day injured list with neck inflammation, expressed his desire to work his way back to his customary ninth-inning position.
"That's why they signed me here, to be the closer," Díaz said.
The three-time All-Star's current season has been marked by performance issues. He was placed on the injured list on Tuesday, one day after allowing three runs in an 11-5 victory over the Colorado Rockies. This outing was his ninth since recovering from surgery to remove loose bodies from his elbow. So far this season, Díaz has an 11.85 earned run average in 16 games.
Díaz is eligible to return from the injured list on September 2. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that the plan is to ease him back into games in less critical moments to help him rebuild confidence. Tanner Scott has taken over as the Dodgers' primary closer in Díaz's absence.
Acknowledging his performance, Díaz stated, "I'm good with the decision because I know I haven't done my job. If I'd done my job, I'd be pitching in the ninth inning."
Díaz mentioned that his neck began to bother him after his appearance on Monday. The Dodgers sent him for evaluation to determine if it was contributing to a lowered arm slot, which he believes has led to his pitches flattening out. Díaz confirmed that his physical evaluations were positive and that he threw a bullpen session on Saturday. He is currently working with coaches to achieve a more consistent, elevated arm angle, believing it will improve his fastball.
Despite the challenges, Díaz maintains a positive outlook, though he admitted to feeling "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."