Edwin Diaz Goes From Dodgers Disaster to Trusted Postseason Closer

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz, who had previously blown multiple regular-season save chances, is now seen as a trusted postseason closer by his team. Diaz had blown four of 11 save opportunities in the regular season, posting an 8.68 ERA over 21 games while pitching 18.2 innings. He had two separate IL stints, one for elbow surgery and the other for neck inflammation.

Before the surgery, Diaz had struggled in his last two games, with decreased velocity and lack of overall stuff. After undergoing treatment for the elbow issue, there was hope he could recover, but he returned with strong velocity but struggled with command and mechanics. Following multiple blown saves and disastrous outings, Diaz returned to the IL again due to neck issues.

In late September, he made a strong comeback, pitching five innings, allowing just one hit and one walk, and striking out nine. This performance helped rebuild Diaz's trust with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who believed in his ability to deliver in the postseason. Diaz's momentum continued into the postseason, where he struck out batters and earned saves in Games 2 and 4 of the NLDS series against the Atlanta Braves.

In the final game, he clinched the series with a strikeout and a scoreless inning. Manager Roberts praised Diaz for his recent performance, emphasizing his role in acquiring one of the game's best closers. Going forward, Diaz will continue to take on similar situations in the NLCS, and he will need to deliver to make up for his regular season performances.