Edwin Diaz Set to Rejoin Mets This Week

It seems Edwin Diaz will be making his return to face the New York Mets this week after all.

He definitely has the intention to make an impact.

Before the game on Monday against the Mets, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts mentioned he anticipates that the team’s new $69 million closer will pitch this week, particularly if a save opportunity arises. This will be Diaz’s first matchup against his former team since he left as a free agent this winter.

This follows an unusual weekend for Diaz. He gave up a three-run lead during a missed save on Friday, wasn’t called for a save on Saturday, and may have been sidelined on Sunday when he had another chance but didn’t appear.

Roberts explained that the cautious approach stemmed from concerns about Diaz’s decreased fastball velocity earlier this season.

Over the weekend, the team examined his bruised knee but didn’t conduct any advanced medical imaging tests.

Diaz remarked that he has experienced velocity issues at the start of the season for the past three years post-injury but also noted that he feels better this year compared to the previous ones.

“He’s eager to pitch and claims he’s ready,” Roberts stated. “Right now, we’re just liaising with our training staff to assess the best course of action.”

Roberts seemed more optimistic on Monday, suggesting that the recent troubles with Diaz, who was 4-for-4 in saves prior to Friday’s slip-up, may be behind them.

“I chatted with Edwin a bit earlier, and he seems to be in good spirits,” Roberts said. “It’s crucial to keep these lines of communication open with the training team… from what I see, he looks solid.”

In the past, Diaz has started the season with lowered velocity, but his current average of 95.8 mph is notably about a tick and a half lower than last year. On Friday, he had difficulty maintaining his slider in the strike zone.

Though Diaz told reporters over the weekend that he was feeling fine, Roberts revealed that Diaz had mentioned he “just doesn’t feel well” after Friday’s game.

Given it’s still early in the season, the club wants to ensure there aren’t any underlying health concerns before he returns to pitching duties.

“Much of this decision comes down to the timing,” Roberts noted. “His health is the main priority. That’s why there’s been extra caution right now.”

Roberts indicated that they anticipate Diaz will soon regain his form.

“If he continues to feel good, we expect his velocity to improve,” he said.

Injury Updates in the Bullpen

The Dodgers are dealing with another injury issue, as right-hander Ben Kasparius has been placed on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation.

In his place, Kyle Hart has been called up.

Kasparius, now in his third season, has faced difficulties this year, with a 9.64 ERA and four walks against four strikeouts across five games.

This injury will give Hart his first chance in the majors following Tommy John surgery in 2024. Hart, drafted in the fifth round from USC, had only pitched in four career games before the surgery but showed promise in spring training, achieving shutouts in five of six games at Triple-A to start the season.