Full Breakdown
Edwin Díaz's Early Season Velocity Concerns: Dodgers Tread Lightly
4/13/2026, 2:39:50 AM
Overview of the Situation
Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz is experiencing a notable decrease in fastball velocity at the start of the 2026 MLB season. After signing a record-setting three-year, $69 million contract in December, Díaz's fastball has averaged only 95.8 mph in his first six appearances, down from 97.2 mph last season. This decline has prompted the Dodgers to adopt a cautious approach regarding his usage.
Managerial Caution and Player Confidence
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has indicated that the team is "treading lightly" with Díaz's workload as they monitor his performance. Following a three-run blown save on Friday night, where Díaz averaged just 95.5 mph, Roberts opted not to use him in a save situation the following day. He described Díaz's status as "day-to-day," emphasizing that the team is not concerned about an injury, stating, "It's not an IL thing we're talking about."
Díaz himself has expressed confidence in his ability to regain his velocity, attributing early-season struggles to a recurring pattern in recent years. "The last couple years, it’s been like that," he noted, suggesting that his velocity typically improves as the season progresses.
Historical Context and Performance Data
Díaz's current velocity issues are not entirely unprecedented. Since returning from a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire 2023 season, he has faced similar early-season velocity drops. Historical data shows that in April 2024, his fastball averaged 96.9 mph, while in April 2025, it was at 96.3 mph, both of which increased as the season advanced.
Roberts acknowledged the significance of the 2 mph drop from Díaz's usual average, stating, "We’re still trying to dig in a little bit." The manager's cautious approach is also influenced by the team's recent experience with another high-profile player, Blake Snell, who began the season on the injured list due to shoulder fatigue.
Official Statements & Responses
Roberts has reiterated that Díaz's issues are not mechanical and that the team is optimistic about his recovery. "Everything I hear is that he feels fine," Roberts stated, while also keeping a close eye on his performance metrics. The Dodgers are committed to ensuring that Díaz does not rush his return to form at the expense of his health.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Dodgers maintain a low level of concern regarding Díaz's performance, some analysts suggest that the team's cautious approach may be overly protective. Critics argue that a more aggressive strategy could help Díaz regain his confidence and performance level more quickly.
What's Next for Díaz and the Dodgers
As the season progresses, the Dodgers will continue to monitor Díaz's velocity and overall performance closely. The team's strategy will likely involve careful management of his appearances to ensure he can return to his dominant form without risking further injury. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether Díaz can regain his typical fastball velocity and contribute effectively to the Dodgers' bullpen.
