The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a 5-4 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday night after closer Edwin Díaz surrendered a four-run ninth inning, blowing a two-run lead in the series opener. The defeat marked Díaz’s third blown save in his last four outings, raising questions about his role as the team’s primary closer.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered six strong innings for the Dodgers, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out nine. The Brewers tied the game in the fifth inning with a leadoff double, bunt single, and sacrifice fly before Díaz entered in the ninth. Despite the loss, the Dodgers remain within one game of the Brewers in the National League standings, with the series tied 1-1.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts defended Díaz’s closer role, stating that changing routines for a pitcher with over seven years of experience as a closer is not straightforward. Roberts emphasized giving Díaz the best opportunity to succeed, though he acknowledged the need for alternatives. Tanner Scott, with a 2.25 ERA and 16 saves, has emerged as a potential option in lower-leverage situations.
The Dodgers, seeking their third straight World Series title, face the Brewers—a small-market team with the best regular-season record in baseball last year—in a pivotal series. The Brewers’ ability to manufacture runs contrasts with the Dodgers’ power-hitting approach, highlighting the contrasting identities of the two teams. The series continues with two games remaining, including a potential series-deciding matchup on Sunday.
Yamamoto’s performance underscored his value as a starter, while Díaz’s struggles added pressure on the Dodgers’ bullpen. The team’s ability to recover from Díaz’s setback will be critical in maintaining their pursuit of the National League’s top seed.