Mental Cue Revives Dodgers Closer Diaz for Postseason

Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz is nearing his peak performance as the postseason approaches, overcoming a difficult 2026 season. After a few weeks ago it seemed unlikely, a pivotal phone call to his longtime pitching coach, Hector Mercado, has made a significant difference.

Mercado, a former big leaguer and pitching coach from Puerto Rico, provided Diaz with a mental cue to help center his delivery. Diaz implemented this cue during a bullpen session on September 15, feeling immediate improvement. He continued to build momentum in a minor league game the next day and upon rejoining the Dodgers.

Diaz concluded the regular season strongly, striking out nine of the 17 batters he faced across his final five appearances, allowing only two baserunners. While these outings were in low-leverage situations, his performance indicates readiness for high-pressure postseason games.

Diaz expressed his eagerness, stating, "I'm ready to pitch every day. I just want them to keep trusting me and keep giving me the ball to show them I'm ready to pitch in the postseason." The Dodgers, who have utilized a closer-by-committee approach in recent postseasons, may rely on this strategy again or go with the hottest pitcher, rather than naming a single closer.