Dodgers' Díaz Confident in 2026 Return After Elbow Surgery

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz expressed strong confidence Monday in returning to the mound before the end of the 2026 season, just days after undergoing surgery to remove five loose bodies from his right elbow.

The 32-year-old right-hander had the procedure last Wednesday in Los Angeles after imaging revealed the fragments of bone or cartilage, which he said had been present since 2012 when he signed as an amateur free agent with the Seattle Mariners. For most of his 14-year professional career, the loose bodies caused no issues, but they began affecting him this season for the first time. Díaz described the early removal as a best-case scenario. "Right now, just a couple days after surgery, I can move my arm really good," he said. "My range of motion is completely back to normal."

Díaz's troubles surfaced during the Dodgers' early games following his signing of a three-year, $69 million contract as a free agent last offseason. He posted a 1-0 record with a 10.50 ERA, 2.33 WHIP and 10 strikeouts over seven appearances and six innings. His fastball averaged 95.7 mph, down from 97.2 mph in 2025 when he recorded 28 saves and a 1.63 ERA with the New York Mets.