Edwin Díaz’s Injury Plagued Season Continues

The Los Angeles Dodgers have placed All-Star closer Edwin Díaz on the injured list due to neck inflammation, according to manager Dave Roberts. This marks the second stint on the injured list for Díaz this season, following a three-month absence after undergoing surgery to remove loose bodies from his pitching elbow. He initially returned from the injured list on July 29 but has struggled to regain his form.

After signing a three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers this offseason, Díaz’s first year has been a disaster. In 16 outings, he has posted an 11.85 ERA, 2.56 WHIP, and -1.4 WAR. Despite having seven saves, he has blown four opportunities. He has had seven outings with zero runs allowed and five where he’s allowed multiple runs.

The loose bodies in his elbow were supposed to be cleared up after his return from the injured list, but instead, he posted a 12.91 ERA with three saves in six chances in his nine appearances after his return. His performance has been even worse than expected, starting from a very low bar.

Díaz’s outing on Tuesday night in Colorado was particularly concerning, as he gave up three runs on four hits in his inning. He did not strike out any batters and hit one. It’s clear that the Dodgers and Díaz have decided to take a step back and re-evaluate his situation.

In a corresponding move, the Dodgers have recalled Emmet Sheehan from Triple-A to provide some much-needed help for their shaky bullpen.

What’s Next for the Dodgers’ Struggling Bullpen?

The Dodgers were looking to shore up one of their few weaknesses after two consecutive World Series championships. However, the team’s bullpen woes have continued to plague them. Díaz’s injury has left the Dodgers with limited options, and it’s unclear who will step up to fill the void.

Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia could potentially serve as the team’s main two late-inning guys, but Evan Phillips and Jack Dreyer are also options. However, none of these pitchers have been able to consistently throw the ball well, leaving the Dodgers with a major concern.

As manager Dave Roberts pointed out, the team lacks depth and quality in their bullpen. They need to find a solution to this problem quickly, or it could cost them dearly in the long run.

Recalling Emmet Sheehan from Triple-A is a step in the right direction, but it’s unclear if he will be able to make a significant impact. The Dodgers need to find a more permanent solution to their bullpen woes, or they risk falling behind in the standings.

A Look Back at the Dodgers’ Bullpen Concerns

The Dodgers’ bullpen was a major concern down the stretch last season, but the team was able to overcome it with the help of Roki Sasaki and their four ace-like starting pitchers. However, this season has been a different story. The team’s bullpen woes have continued to plague them, and it’s unclear if they will be able to find a solution.

The Dodgers need to find a way to fix their bullpen quickly, or they risk falling behind in the standings. They have the talent and resources to do so, but it remains to be seen if they will be able to make the necessary changes.

In the meantime, the team will have to rely on their starting pitchers to carry the load. However, even their ace-like starters have been struggling at times, leaving the Dodgers with a major concern.