Dodgers Kick Off Season with Three Comeback Wins

New closer Edwin Díaz makes an immediate impact as the defending champions start strong

Mar. 29, 2026 at 8:55pm

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The Los Angeles Dodgers opened their 2026 season with a three-game sweep of the Arizona Diamondbacks, rallying from behind in each victory. Highlights included a dramatic 8th inning home run by catcher Will Smith on his bobblehead night and a clutch RBI single by newcomer Kyle Tucker. The Dodgers' bullpen, led by the electric entrance of new closer Edwin Díaz, was a key factor in the team's early success.

Why it matters

After winning the World Series in 2024 and 2025, the Dodgers are looking to cement their status as a modern baseball dynasty. Their ability to mount late-game comebacks and rely on a revamped bullpen will be crucial as they aim for a third straight championship.

The details

In the three-game series, the Dodgers overcame early deficits in each game, with key hits from players like Will Smith, Kyle Tucker, and Andy Pages. The bullpen, an area of concern last season, has shown promise so far with new closer Edwin Díaz recording two saves and putting on an exciting entrance routine reminiscent of former Dodger closer Eric Gagné.

  • On Opening Day, Thursday, the Dodgers raised their 2025 championship pennant.
  • On Friday, the players received their 2025 championship rings.
  • On Saturday, coaches, staff, and non-uniformed personnel received their 2025 championship rings.

The players

Will Smith

The Dodgers' starting catcher, who hit a dramatic 8th inning home run on his bobblehead night to lead the team to victory.

Kyle Tucker

A new addition to the Dodgers' lineup, who delivered a go-ahead RBI single in the 8th inning of Friday's game.

Edwin Díaz

The Dodgers' new closer, who has recorded two saves so far this season and has an exciting entrance routine.

Dave Roberts

The Dodgers' manager, who praised the team's ability to grind out at-bats and not get themselves out in late-game situations.

Tyler Glasnow

The Dodgers' starting pitcher who had a good outing in Friday's game.

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What they’re saying

“I just kind of dropped the bobblehead card' in their conversation, Smith said. Smart move.”

— Will Smith, Dodgers Catcher

“I think the heartbeat makes him reliable in those situations (as well as) his ability to spoil pitches, to put the bat on the ball. He doesn't chase very much. And so he trusts his swing to see the ball a little bit longer with two strikes in big moments. And then when he gets a pitch he can handle, then he feels convicted to take a good swing.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

“I think it's just one pitch, one at-bat at a time. I mean, you're gonna hear this word a lot, it's grinding. Just really trying to grind at bats, and trying to wait for these guys to make a mistake and not get yourself out.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

The Dodgers will look to continue their strong start to the season as they face the Colorado Rockies in a three-game series beginning on April 1st.

The takeaway

The Dodgers' ability to mount late-game comebacks and their revamped bullpen, led by new closer Edwin Díaz, have been key factors in their early-season success. As the defending champions aim for a third straight title, their resilience and ability to win close games will be crucial.