Dodgers Closer Edwin Díaz Returns from Elbow Surgery on Bobblehead Night

The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated All-Star closer Edwin Díaz from the injured list, marking his return to action three months after undergoing surgery to address structural issues in his right elbow. Díaz earned a save in Wednesday's 4-2 victory over the Seattle Mariners, demonstrating immediate readiness for his role as the team's primary closer.

Return and Recovery

Díaz underwent a procedure in April to remove loose bodies from his right elbow, a condition that produced persistent soreness and limited his range of motion during seven appearances to start the season. Manager Dave Roberts described the removed fragments as resembling "shark teeth," noting that their extraction addressed the root cause of the pitcher's early-season inconsistencies. The 32-year-old's fastball velocity had dipped noticeably during those initial appearances before the surgery.

To clear roster space for Díaz's activation, the Dodgers designated left-handed pitcher Charlie Barnes for assignment. The timing aligned remarkably with Díaz receiving his first bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium—a coincidence that drew a smile from the veteran reliever in the clubhouse.

Arm Strength Restored

Díaz rebuilt his strength through seven minor league rehabilitation appearances across three levels, allowing two runs over 5⅔ innings while recording 11 strikeouts. His fastball velocity steadily climbed back into the 96-98 mph range during that stretch. Upon returning to the major league mound, he expects additional velocity gains from the energy of a full stadium crowd.

"When I started facing hitters here and I saw my velo, I was surprised," Díaz said. "The adrenaline will be there. I pitched in seven Minor League games, but every stadium, the fans weren't like they are here. So I'm expecting to be a little more aggressive than I was in the Minor Leagues."

Roberts showed immediate confidence in Díaz's readiness, assigning him directly to his pre-injury role rather than gradually building him back into the closer position. The Dodgers employed a committee approach in the closer's absence, but the team's performance is expected to benefit from having their established primary reliever available for high-leverage situations.