The Los Angeles Dodgers are contemplating a potential return for closer Edwin Díaz to his ninth-inning role as the team heads into the postseason. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Díaz's recent string of strong performances has made his involvement in crucial late-game situations "certainly possible."
Díaz, who was acquired in a significant offseason move, has had a difficult season marked by injuries and an elevated earned run average, casting doubt on his playoff roster status just a week ago. However, his recent outings have demonstrated a return to his dominant form.
In the Dodgers' 7-0 victory over the San Diego Padres on Tuesday, Díaz retired the top of the Padres' batting order in order during the fifth inning. This marked his third consecutive scoreless appearance, a stretch during which he has allowed only one hit, one walk, and recorded six strikeouts. This resurgence is attributed to a mechanical adjustment made during a minor league rehab stint.
"His last three have been fantastic with us," Roberts stated. "I wanted to see him against their better hitters, and he did a really nice job."
Roberts acknowledged Díaz's efforts to "right the ship" after a turbulent season, praising his resilience. When asked about the possibility of Díaz reclaiming closer duties, Roberts did not dismiss it, saying, "The way he’s throwing, the ninth is possible, yes."
While Díaz's return to form adds an intriguing subplot to the Dodgers' final regular-season week, the team has other established closer options. Tanner Scott has served effectively as Díaz's replacement, converting 23 of 27 save opportunities with a 2.77 ERA. Roki Sasaki has also transitioned back to relief duties and was a closing option during the Dodgers' previous World Series run.
Roberts suggested that a closer-by-committee approach remains a possibility. Nevertheless, the team had initially envisioned Díaz, with his signature bullpen entrance, as a key component for closing out games. Despite a season where he converted only seven of 11 save opportunities and battled elbow and neck inflammation, there may still be an opportunity for him to regain his primary role.