The Los Angeles Dodgers have been rolling without their highest-paid reliever this season. But Edwin Diaz just took a big step toward changing that.
Diaz faced live hitters for the second time on Wednesday, according to Jack Harris of the California Post. That session went well enough that a minor-league rehab assignment is now the next logical step. If everything holds, the Dodgers could have their closer back shortly after the All-Star break.
That’s the optimistic read, anyway. The team hasn’t confirmed a date, and Diaz still has to get through those rehab outings without any setbacks. But the fact that he’s already facing batters in a controlled setting is a legitimate sign of progress.
What a Healthy Diaz Means for the Dodgers
LA signed Diaz this past offseason expecting him to lock down the ninth inning. Instead, he pitched to a 10.50 ERA over seven appearances before landing on the injured list with an elbow issue. That’s ugly, no way around it. But the Dodgers didn’t sign him based on seven games. They signed him based on what he did in 2025 with the Mets, when he posted a 1.63 ERA with 28 saves across 62 outings.
The talent hasn’t disappeared. It’s just been sitting on the shelf.
Los Angeles has managed fine in Diaz’s absence. The bullpen has been solid enough to keep the team near the top of the NL West. But having a proven, high-leverage arm like Diaz available for the final two months of the regular season and into the playoffs would be a significant upgrade. Especially because October bullpens tend to win championships.
What’s Next for Diaz
Rehab assignment. Then a ramp-up period. Then, fingers crossed, activation. That’s the plan as it stands right now.
The Dodgers host Colorado again Wednesday night at Dodger Stadium. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 PM EST. The series is tied 1-1. That game probably won’t feature Diaz in any capacity, but the fact that we’re even talking about his return timeline is good news for a team that has bigger goals than just winning the division.
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