Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was visibly frustrated after the team's 5-4 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers, particularly due to the struggles of closer Edwin Diaz.
The 31-year-old Diaz blew his third save in the last week, surrendering a 4-2 lead in the ninth inning with four straight singles.
He came in with a strikeout, but then allowed the singles to tie the game. Diaz was removed from the game after two outs, leaving runners in scoring position.
Diaz's outing was the latest in a series of struggles for the closer, who has yet to find his form despite rehabbing from shoulder surgery. Even the usually confident Diaz appeared disappointed after the game.
When asked about his ability to handle the closer role, Diaz said it would come down to what the team wanted. "I gotta see what they want to do. I know I'm struggling, so I want to do the best thing for our team," he said.
Manager Dave Roberts was visibly annoyed with the performance and expressed his frustration with the lack of alternatives. "Give me another option," Roberts said sharply to the media. "I can't just say change (and use Diaz) in lower leverage; I have to have other options."
Roberts stated that none of the other relievers were currently throwing well, making it difficult to consider a closer by committee or alternatives. "Who's the other option?" Roberts asked reporters. "I mean, you look back at the last week and guys have struggled."
The Dodgers do have some other options, including Tanner Scott, who was in a similar spot to Diaz last year but managed to turn things around after being moved down to the setup man. Scott could potentially return to the closer role while Diaz gains confidence.
Other options include big guys like Edgardo Henriquez and Seth Halvorsen, who can offer some better potential swing-and-miss stuff. Alex Vesia has been mostly reliable as well, and while he has experienced a decline since his early-season performance, he may be one of the relievers who can fill in while Diaz figures things out.
Roberts' evidence-based frustration stems from the fact that the Dodgers can ill afford more blown saves in September and October, particularly in a three-peat campaign. With the stakes high, the team will have to figure out a solution to their closer conundrum.
The Dodgers will likely continue to assess their options and consider ways to support Diaz in his role. Meanwhile, Roberts will have to weigh the risks and benefits of sticking with the struggling closer or exploring alternative options.
Source: Yahoo Sports
