Edwin Díaz Posts First Clean Outing Of Month

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz threw a perfect outing on Monday night, marking his first clean game of the month. The 29-year-old closer, who underwent surgery on his elbow in the offseason, had struggled since returning from the injured list. In his first seven appearances before being shut down, Díaz posted a 10.50 ERA, and his ERA has risen to 9.00 since his return.

Díaz' performance was crucial as the Dodgers bullpen once again blew a lead on Monday night, but the one-run seventh inning allowed them to regain the advantage. Tanner Scott and Díaz were the key players tasked with protecting the lead. Scott delivered an impressive performance, while Roberts decided to bring in Díaz in the ninth inning.

Throughout this month, Díaz has allowed a run in every outing and has blown one-run leads in his last two games. However, on Monday night, he silenced all critics by throwing a flawless game. He struck out Michael Massey on five pitches, got Isaac Collins to fly out in three pitches, and induced Kyle Isbel to ground out in four pitches. Díaz showcased his skills as a star closer, fulfilling the expectations the Dodgers had when they signed him.

This performance also represented a significant moment for Díaz, as it was a full-circle event. Just a year ago, on August 10, Collins had walked off the New York Mets, giving Díaz his first big win. A year later, Díaz secured the win for his team against Collins, proving he has matured into the pitcher the Dodgers hoped to acquire.