Roberts says no single closer set as Dodgers plan postseason bullpen
The short version
- Dave Roberts said he does not see one pitcher as the closer for the postseason.
- Roki Sasaki, back from injury, is an option for high-leverage relief work.
- Edwin Diaz has a 10.34 ERA; Tanner Scott has been the de facto closer in 2026.
- The Dodgers need two more wins to lock up an NLDS bye with six games remaining.
With Los Angeles closing in on an NLDS bye, manager Dave Roberts is weighing a flexible late-inning approach that could include Roki Sasaki.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are two wins from clinching a first-round bye into the NL Division Series with six games left on their schedule, and manager Dave Roberts is already mapping out how to handle the late innings in October.
Speaking on SportsNet LA, Roberts said using Roki Sasaki in a closing role is under consideration. Sasaki returned from injury on Tuesday against the San Diego Padres.
"It's certainly an option," Roberts said of Sasaki closing. He added, however, that he does not currently envision one pitcher holding the closer job outright.
Closer Edwin Diaz, a major offseason acquisition, has struggled badly in his first season with Los Angeles, carrying a 10.34 ERA into Tuesday's game against the Padres. Tanner Scott has served as the de facto closer in 2026 after a disappointing first year with the club following his four-year, $72 million deal signed in 2025.
Roberts indicated the Dodgers will stay flexible, noting that the most demanding outs do not always come in the ninth inning. He said the team will deploy relievers in whatever way gives it the best chance to win in the playoffs.
Shohei Ohtani is close to rejoining the starting lineup as Los Angeles pursues a third consecutive World Series title.