{
  "id": 12745385,
  "title": "Dodgers Remain Noncommittal on Closer Role Amid Postseason Uncertainty",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/08/dodgers-remain-noncommittal-on-closer-role-amid-postseason-uncertainty",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-08T00:31:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/sports/mlb/dodgers-remain-noncommittal-on-closer-role-amid-postseason-uncertainty-12538184"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Los Angeles Dodgers closer candidate Edwin Diaz is showing signs of his $69 million worth, yet the team remains undecided on his role heading into the postseason. Diaz delivered a strong performance in Game 3 of the NLDS, defeating the Atlanta Braves 3-1 while working in the ninth inning. Before his return from the injured list, Diaz had gone without conceding a run in six appearances. His recent form includes leaving a runner stranded on third with no runs allowed, following a leadoff double. Despite his impressive run, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts advised caution in deciding on Diaz's closer status, stating, \"There’s no downside in that, knowing I trust him there.\" The Dodgers have a history of utilizing multiple relievers in crucial late-inning situations; Tanner Scott and Evan Phillips have both served as closer in the past. Scott, who dealt with injuries throughout the 2026 season, recorded a career-high 25 saves, while Phillips had a strong 42-save mark in 2023 and 2024. With a roster brimming with options in high-pressure closer roles, manager Roberts is choosing to keep his options open. Following his $69 million signing, Dodgers fans had high expectations for Diaz's performance. However, the right-hander struggled initially, posting a 1.80 ERA through his first five appearances before allowing three runs against the Rangers and another three without recording an out against the Rockies. Diaz underwent elbow surgery in July and returned to action, but failed to meet expectations, allowing 11 earned runs in nine appearances (7.2 innings pitched) and blowing three of his six save chances. He returned to the injured list in August with neck inflammation. Diaz's current hot streak in Game 4 of the NLDS hinges on whether he receives another look, with the next series game set for Wednesday at 3:00 p.m. PT.",
  "summary": "Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Diaz hasn't secured the team's closer role despite his strong run of form.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}