Edwin Díaz began his rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday and threw a scoreless inning against the Round Rock Express (Texas Rangers affiliate).
It wasn’t Díaz’s most encouraging performance, as he threw only seven of his 16 pitches for strikes and didn’t generate a single swing-and-miss. The right-hander walked a batter and recorded his only strikeout on a called third strike.
Manager Dave Roberts was nevertheless encouraged by Díaz’s outing and said he will make one more rehab appearance before rejoining the Dodgers.
“It was good. It was good,” Roberts said. “I’m sure Edwin’s going to want to get back here as soon as possible, but I’m probably more on the get another one, and then get back with us.”
Díaz has been out since Aug. 18 because of neck inflammation. It’s his second stint on the injured list this season after previously missing more than three months while recovering from surgery to remove loose bodies from his right elbow.
Díaz struggled mightily after returning from his first IL stint, allowing 16 hits and 11 runs over 7.2 innings while blowing three save opportunities in the process. He is just 2-2 with an 11.85 ERA and 2.56 WHIP in 13.2 innings at the big league level this year.
Díaz’s first season with the Dodgers has been a disappointment so far, but there is still time for him to turn things around. He will look to finish the regular season on a strong note and carry that momentum into the playoffs.
Edwin Díaz wants to earn back closer role
When Díaz returns to the Dodgers, he will be eased back and not immediately thrust into the closer role, Roberts previously said. The three-time All-Star hopes to eventually reclaim the job and regain Roberts’ trust.
“Well, we got a lot of season left,” Díaz said. “We are a playoff team, so my goal is to be ready and help this team in the playoffs. So I’m working on that. I know I will be back, so I’m really positive.”
With Díaz sidelined, Tanner Scott has been receiving most of the save opportunities for the Dodgers. However, Edgardo Henriquez could begin factoring into the ninth inning as well, given his recent dominance and record-setting fastball.
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