The Los Angeles Dodgers are losing their newly acquired $69 million closer. Edwin Díaz is heading to the 15-day injured list. The 32-year-old right-hander requires surgery to remove loose bodies from his right elbow. The defending World Series champions suddenly have a massive hole in the ninth inning.
The procedure is scheduled for Wednesday at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles. Díaz faces an estimated three-month recovery window. He could return to the mound by late July or early August, according to official club estimates released to the press.
Warning signs appeared early. Díaz struggled through his first seven appearances. He posted a 10.50 ERA. He surrendered seven earned runs on nine hits. His trademark fastball velocity also dipped. He averaged 95.7 mph, noticeably down from his usual 97 mph. This physical decline immediately followed his decision to opt out of his New York Mets contract and sign a massive three-year, $69 million deal with Los Angeles.
Los Angeles acted quickly. The front office recalled 27-year-old left-hander Jake Eder from Triple-A Oklahoma City. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the team will pivot to a closer-by-committee strategy for the immediate future. The Dodgers chase three-peat ambitions remain, but the bullpen lacks a dedicated anchor.
This marks the second major physical setback of Díaz’s prime. He previously missed the entire 2023 season. He tore his patellar tendon while celebrating a Puerto Rico victory at the World Baseball Classic.
How the Dodgers Front Office Can Navigate the Ninth Inning Crisis
Roberts is relying on internal options for now. That committee approach is a temporary patch. Los Angeles lacks dominant swing-and-miss depth at the back end of the bullpen. The front office might need external help if the committee struggles. Analysts point to veteran free agents. Michael Kopech and Chad Green remain available on the open market. Signing a proven arm would prevent the Dodgers from overworking their middle relievers before the trade deadline.