Dodgers' Investment in Edwin Diaz Turns Sour

The Los Angeles Dodgers' recent investment in Edwin Diaz, the star reliever they signed for three years at $69 million, has quickly become a topic of concern among fans and analysts alike. Initially celebrated as a significant acquisition, the excitement has faded as the closer struggles to perform.

Diaz, who previously showcased his skills with the Mets by saving 28 games and boasting a 1.63 ERA, underwent elbow surgery early in the season, sidelining him for three months. Since his return in late July, his performance has been far from spectacular, contributing to the Dodgers' recent slide, including a frustrating 5-4 loss to the Brewers where Diaz failed to protect a lead.

In that game, Diaz struck out the first batter but quickly unraveled, allowing four consecutive singles that tied the game. After another strikeout, he was replaced, but the damage was done. This marked yet another instance in a troubling trend, as Diaz has allowed runs in five of his seven appearances since returning from the injured list, blowing saves in three of his last four outings.

Diaz himself acknowledged his struggles, admitting, "I was throwing my fastball right in the middle. When you miss in the middle, you pay." His fastball velocity has dipped and hitters are capitalizing, slugging .714 against his fastballs and .571 against his sliders this season.

Despite these challenges, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains committed to Diaz as his closer, questioning alternatives due to his team’s overall bullpen issues, which have seen a 4.71 ERA since July. The Dodgers, however, remain in a strong position with 73 wins and an eight-game lead in their division, raising the question of whether Diaz's struggles will ultimately impact their postseason aspirations.

Source: defector.com