Dodgers Make Roki Sasaki Decision After Star Pitcher’s Elbow Surgery Setback

BusinessSportsMoneyDodgers Make Roki Sasaki Decision After Star Pitcher’s Elbow Surgery SetbackByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorApr 21, 2026, 09:58am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 30: Roki Sasaki #11 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on before the game against the Cleveland Guardians at Dodger Stadium on March 30, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe Los Angeles Dodgers put a two-game losing streak behind them with a win against the Colorado Rockies on Monday, wrapping that four-game series up in a tie as they prepare to take on the division rival San Francisco Giants.But the win was preceded by a significant loss, as the team announced that All-Star closer Edwin Diaz would be undergoing elbow surgery with a long timeline for recovery.“Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz is scheduled to undergo surgery Wednesday to remove loose bodies in his right elbow, the team announced,” per ESPN. “The expectation is that the reliever could sit out around three months.”The Dodgers have been able to stay afloat despite less-than-expected results from Diaz in his debut with the team so far this year. He has a 10.50 ERA in seven games going into the surgery and it seems like the surgery could address a noted downtick in velocity he has seen this season.ForbesMets Superstar Sends Juan Soto Message After Brutal Cubs LossBy Peter ChawagaLos Angeles Dodgers Urged To Replace Edwin Diaz With Roki Sasaki After Injury NewsBut it also raises a question for the defending World Series champions, as Diaz was the clear-cut option to close out games. He leads the team with four saves so far this season, while Alex Vesia is the only other player to record any so far, with two.MORE FOR...