Dodgers Keep Edwin Diaz as Closer After 3 Blown Saves in 1 Week
Updated
Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 14
Dodgers Keep Edwin Diaz as Closer After 3 Blown Saves in 1 Week
3 articles · Updated · USA TODAY · Aug 14
Summary
Dave Roberts said Edwin Diaz will stay in the ninth-inning role after Thursday’s 5-4 loss to Milwaukee, when Diaz surrendered three runs and four straight hits in the ninth.
Three blown saves since last week have pushed Diaz into a severe slump — an 11.57 ERA over his past 14 games and a 12.71 ERA since returning in late July.
Roberts said the Dodgers lack a clear bullpen alternative, arguing other relievers also have struggled and are not pitching well enough for high-leverage spots.
The manager linked part of Diaz’s problems to his return from right elbow surgery after roughly three months out, saying the staff will keep searching for a fix while giving him runway.
Diaz acknowledged the struggles and frustration but said he still wants the ball in the ninth and must become more consistent.