Dodgers' Edwin Diaz Reveals Cause of Mysterious Injury

Veteran closer says lack of velocity due to lingering effects from 2023 WBC knee injury

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:44am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball pitcher's motion broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy, green, and orange, conceptually representing the lingering physical effects of a prior injury.An abstract, cubist interpretation of a star closer's pitching motion, reflecting the lingering physical challenges he faces after a major injury.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Díaz revealed that his recent absence from the team was not due to a new physical injury, but rather the lingering effects of a knee injury he suffered while playing for Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Díaz said he has dealt with early-season velocity issues on his fastball since that incident, though he is not currently dealing with any new physical problems.

Why it matters

Díaz is a key part of the Dodgers' bullpen and his health is crucial to the team's success. Any extended absence due to injury could significantly impact the Dodgers' chances of returning to the playoffs. Díaz's candid comments provide insight into the challenges elite athletes can face in recovering from major injuries.

The details

In a relief appearance on Friday, Díaz noticed his fastball did not have its usual life or velocity. However, he said this is a common issue for him at the start of each season since the 2023 WBC knee injury. Díaz assured fans he is not currently dealing with any new physical problems and is simply working through the lingering effects of the previous injury.

  • Díaz suffered a knee injury while playing for Team Puerto Rico in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

The players

Edwin Díaz

A veteran closer for the Los Angeles Dodgers who has dealt with early-season velocity issues on his fastball since suffering a knee injury in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Los Angeles Dodgers

A Major League Baseball team based in Los Angeles, California that Díaz plays for as their closer.

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What they’re saying

“Felt during the outing Friday I didn't have my usual life on my fastball, but said I've had issues with early-season fastball velocity every season since injuring my knee in the 2023 WBC.”

— Edwin Díaz, Dodgers Closer

What’s next

Díaz and the Dodgers will continue to monitor his progress and velocity as the season goes on, hoping the lingering effects of the 2023 WBC knee injury subside.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the challenges elite athletes can face in recovering from major injuries, even years later. Díaz's transparency in addressing the issue provides valuable insight into the physical and mental toll such setbacks can take, while also demonstrating his commitment to being upfront with fans about his condition.