Edwin Diaz addressed his placement on the injured list during a press conference on August 22, 2026, describing the physical issue that led to the move and the mechanical work he is doing to return quickly.
Diaz said the situation arose after a start earlier in the week. "I feel weird after the game on Monday. So, I talked to the team and they decide to check me," he said. He added that the resulting MRI did not reveal any structural issue. "Doesn't have anything weird my in my neck, but everything was good," Diaz noted, though he acknowledged his arm slot has been dropping.
Coaches showed Diaz video comparisons from previous seasons that illustrated the change in his arm angle. He explained the consequences of the lower slot on his pitches: "I'm throwing the ball side to side. So my slide is still is getting flat in the middle." Diaz stated he is working with the pitching coach to correct the issue, saying, "I've been working with the pitching co just to uh get my arms out a little bit higher."
Diaz mentioned he has already thrown a bullpen session as part of his recovery. "I threw a bullpen yesterday. You know, trying to work in couple things was really good," he said. He confirmed his goal is to be ready when his injured list stint concludes, and explained his in-game approach to the mechanical adjustments: "when I go to the game, I don't try to think about mechanics or anything. I just go out and compete."
Diaz acknowledged some frustration with his performance the 2026 season given his contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, who signed him to be their closer, but expressed belief he can return to form. He said he is happy for Tanner's success closing games in his absence and hopes to reclaim the role eventually. Diaz also described support from his teammates and coaching staff during the stretch, noting, "they everybody's supporting me always. You know, we got a really good group here in the clubhouse."
Diaz emphasized that the season is far from over and that his focus is on returning in time to contribute in the postseason. "we we are a playoff team, so my goal is be ready and help this team in the playoffs," he said, adding that the specific role he returns to remains undecided.