The Los Angeles Dodgers are once again grappling with uncertainty in their closer role following Edwin Diaz's return to the injured list with a neck problem. Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence that Diaz will pitch again this season, but acknowledged that his performance upon return cannot be guaranteed, casting doubt on his availability as a dependable closer for the playoffs.
This situation forces the Dodgers to intensify their search for a pitcher capable of closing games in October over the final weeks of the regular season. While the team faces challenges, they are considered to be in a better position than in the previous year, partly due to the recent performance of free-agent acquisition Tanner Scott.
Potential Closing Options Emerge
Roki Sasaki presents the highest upside for the Dodgers' bullpen, a situation that would hold true even with a healthy Diaz. The 24-year-old Japanese pitcher has postseason closing experience, having stepped into the role out of necessity during the previous year's playoffs. Sasaki, originally a highly touted prospect, experienced a difficult start to his major league career with shoulder issues, leading to a shift to relief pitching in September. His transition to closing in the Wild Card Series proved effective, showcasing an electric performance.
Sasaki has demonstrated significant improvement this season, with his fastball consistently reaching 100 mph and enhanced command and physical strength. His increased durability, with 22 games scheduled this season compared to a maximum of 20 in any of his four seasons in Japan, addresses a key concern from last year's playoffs where he reportedly struggled with fatigue. However, his role as a closer is not guaranteed, as the Dodgers may require him as a starter if injuries impact their rotation, such as with Tyler Glasnow and Shohei Ohtani.
Tanner Scott has been filling the closer role in Diaz's absence. The left-hander recorded a four-out save against the Rockies on Tuesday, but the outing raised some concerns despite his overall strong season performance, which includes a 2.32 ERA in 54 games. Nonetheless, Scott remains a consideration for the ninth inning for now.
Other pitchers in the mix include Evan Phillips, who has performed well since returning from Tommy John surgery, and Jack Dreyer, who has maintained a low ERA in his recent appearances. Emmet Sheehan, initially a starter, was recently recalled from the minors and might be better suited for a one-inning relief role. Alex Vesia is seen by Roberts as a "fireman," a pitcher brought in for specific high-leverage situations, while Edgardo Henriquez's walk rate is a concern.
Despite these alternatives, the Dodgers' preference remains for Diaz, a three-time All-Star with 260 career saves. His past postseason success includes shutting out the Dodgers over 5 ⅓ innings across three games in the 2024 National League Championship Series while with the New York Mets. However, his current injury status makes him an unreliable option for the critical postseason matchups.