Dodgers Manage Edwin Díaz's Workload Amid Early-Season Velocity Drop

The Los Angeles Dodgers are adjusting their approach with closer Edwin Díaz following a drop in his fastball velocity during the early part of the season. 2 mph from the previous year. This issue was evident in a blown save on Friday night, where he allowed three runs and threw hanging sliders.

Manager Dave Roberts announced on Sunday that the team is treading lightly with Díaz's workload. Roberts bypassed Díaz in a save situation on Saturday after his 23-pitch outing the prior night. The decision on Díaz's availability for Sunday's game depended on his pregame throwing session.

Historical Pattern of Velocity Issues Díaz has experienced similar early-season velocity drops in recent years after missing the 2023 season due to a knee injury.

9 mph, increasing to 98 mph by June. 3 mph before reaching 98 mph in August. Díaz, aged 32, stated that his velocity typically starts slow and improves as the season progresses. He expressed confidence in regaining his normal performance.

Díaz ruled out any injury, saying he feels great physically and denying arm fatigue from the World Baseball Classic. >"The last couple years, it’s been like that. It starts kinda slow.

Team's Cautious Approach Roberts described the situation as a day-to-day matter and emphasized playing the long game with players.

He noted that Díaz's issues are not mechanical and downplayed injury concerns, stating it is not an injured list situation. The Dodgers plan to monitor Díaz until his velocity returns to expected levels. Roberts expressed confidence in Díaz's self-assessment but is verifying it with performance data.

The team is taking precautions during the opening month. This follows Díaz's $69 million signing over the winter.