Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz is nearing a return from elbow surgery, with manager Dave Roberts saying the final hurdle is proving he can pitch in back-to-back games, potentially in time for a Mets series at Citi Field or the following homestand. Diaz has progressed through a rehab plan that began in Single-A and moved through Rookie ball and Triple-A, delivering four scoreless outings and velocity improvements up to 98 mph, after which he could be activated as soon as this weekend or next week. His return would restore the Dodgers’ closer role after a season of closer-by-committee lineup and could influence the July 2026 trade deadline strategy by strengthening the bullpen and lineup. The ongoing storyline includes Mets fans anticipated to react with boos or enthusiasm at Diaz’s return, given his departure from New York in free agency and the significant contract he signed with L.A. Earlier notes also indicate Kiké Hernández’s return from an oblique injury could accompany Diaz, further bolstering L.A.’s depth. This context sits amid broader MLB updates, including Ronald Acuña Jr.’s recovery for Atlanta, which underscores the dynamic nature of star returns impacting contenders across the league.