Dodgers Receive Edwin Diaz Update Ahead of Diamondbacks Game

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Dodgers Receive Edwin Diaz Update Ahead of Diamondbacks Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 11, 2026 1:13 PM ET

Edwin Díaz has taken the final step in his return from elbow surgery, with the Los Angeles Dodgers announcing the veteran closer will begin a minor-league rehab assignment Friday night with the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes.

The news came from David Vassegh of AM570 Los Angeles, who confirmed the assignment shortly before the Dodgers' series opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium. Díaz underwent arthroscopic surgery on April 22 to remove loose bodies from his elbow and has been on the injured list ever since.

The assignment follows two successful live batting practice sessions in which Díaz touched 94-95 mph. Manager Dave Roberts said the right-hander faced hitters including Kiké Hernández and came out of both sessions feeling strong and on schedule.

Edwin Diaz will begin his rehab assignment tonight in Ontario. #Dodgers https://t.co/ag6V3JNXJh
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) July 11, 2026

Díaz, 32, signed a three-year, $69 million contract with Los Angeles this past offseason after two seasons with the New York Mets. He has 257 career saves across 11 big-league seasons with the Seattle Mariners, Mets and Dodgers, and posted a 1.63 ERA with 28 saves in 2025.

His 2026 season lasted only seven appearances. He posted a 10.50 ERA across six innings as his fastball velocity dropped to as low as 92.8 mph, prompting the Dodgers' medical staff to shut him down. He converted four of five save opportunities before the surgery.

In his absence, left-hander Tanner Scott shifted into the primary closing role. A successful rehab stint would clear the way for Díaz to return to high-leverage duty shortly after the All-Star break ends.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Díaz (3)Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Dodgers are 61-34 and first in the National League West. Their bullpen has carried a significant workload without their closer, and his return figures to be one of the most impactful roster additions of the second half.

Díaz's recovery puts one of the sport's elite relievers back in play for the stretch run of what is already shaping up as the best season in Dodgers history by winning percentage.

https://athlonsports.com/mlb/los-angeles-dodgers/kike-hernandez-injury-dave-roberts-shares-update-on-dodgers-utility-man

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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