Dodgers Place Edwin Diaz on IL with Neck Inflammation as Ohtani Throws Bullpen
The Los Angeles Dodgers placed relief pitcher Edwin Diaz on the injured list for neck inflammation, while Shohei Ohtani continued his progress by throwing another bullpen session.
The short version
- On Tuesday, August 18, 2026, the Los Angeles Dodgers placed relief pitcher Edwin Diaz on the injured list due to inflammation in the right side of his neck.
- Prior to his IL stint, Edwin Diaz held a 2-2 record with an 11.85 ERA and seven saves in 16 games during his first year of a three-year, $69 million contract.
- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated that an MRI on August 19 showed no structural damage to Diaz's neck and he does not expect Diaz to be out for the year.
- Right-handed pitcher Emmet Sheehan was recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City to fill Edwin Diaz's roster spot.
- Also on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, Shohei Ohtani threw another bullpen session for the Dodgers as he works towards returning to the mound.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating a mix of setbacks and progress this week, placing relief pitcher Edwin Diaz on the injured list due to neck inflammation on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. Simultaneously, two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani continued his methodical return to pitching, throwing another bullpen session for the club, as reported by outlets including TSN, NBC Sports, and ESPN Tri-Cities.
What happened with Edwin Diaz?
Edwin Diaz landed on the injured list due to inflammation in the right side of his neck. This development comes in the first year of his three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers. Prior to the IL stint, Diaz had struggled in the 2026 season, posting a 2-2 record with a high 11.85 ERA and seven saves in 11 opportunities across 16 games. He recorded 19 strikeouts and 10 walks in 13 2/3 innings, alongside a 2.56 WHIP, according to MLB.com.
Diaz returned to Los Angeles on Tuesday for further evaluation. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Diaz was scheduled to be examined by spine specialist Dr. Robert Watkins on Wednesday, August 19, 2026. An MRI conducted on August 19 showed no structural damage, a positive sign for the pitcher.
Roberts expressed cautious optimism regarding Diaz's outlook, telling CBS Sports, "I know Edwin is — I don't know if it's encouraged, but just know that there could be a reason why the stuff is not playing like it has in the past." He added, "And the neck, obviously, there's ties with the whole body, the arm, and all that stuff matters. So I'm personally excited to kind of find something that kind of make us understand what's going on." Roberts concluded, "I don't see a situation where he would be out for the year."
In a corresponding roster move, the Dodgers recalled right-handed pitcher Emmet Sheehan from Triple-A Oklahoma City to bolster their bullpen, as reported by the Associated Press.
What is the latest on Shohei Ohtani's pitching return?
Shohei Ohtani threw another bullpen session on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, marking continued progress in his journey back to the mound. While specific details on pitch count were not fully reported, this session indicates he is steadily advancing through his rehabilitation protocol. Ohtani has been a dominant force at the plate for the Dodgers, but his return to pitching is highly anticipated by fans and analysts alike, with Sports Illustrated noting his consistent participation in these types of throwing sessions.
His continued activity in bullpen sessions signals the Dodgers' deliberate approach to his return to two-way duties, ensuring he is fully prepared before facing live hitters again. The team has been careful not to rush his process, focusing on long-term health and performance.
Frequently asked questions
What is Edwin Diaz's specific injury?
Edwin Diaz was placed on the injured list due to inflammation in the right side of his neck. An MRI performed on August 19 showed no structural damage.
When is Edwin Diaz expected to return to the Dodgers?
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts does not expect Edwin Diaz to be out for the remainder of the season, but a specific timeline for his return has not yet been announced.
What does Shohei Ohtani's bullpen session mean for his return to pitching?
Shohei Ohtani's bullpen session signifies his continued progress toward returning to the mound. It is part of his ongoing rehabilitation and preparation to resume two-way duties for the Dodgers.
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