Dodgers lose 5-4 to Brewers as closer Edwin Díaz blows third save

Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Edwin Díaz entered the ninth inning of Thursday’s game with a two-run lead over the Milwaukee Brewers, but a series of hits and a walk-off single allowed Milwaukee to win 5-4. Díaz, who returned from arthroscopic elbow surgery a few weeks earlier, missed his fastball’s spot and gave up four consecutive singles before being pulled for left-hander Alex Vesia, who allowed the go-ahead run.

After the loss, Díaz said he needed to improve his command, noting that “every big-league hitter can hit it right in the middle, even if you throw 200 miles an hour.” He added that he would continue to do his job regardless of the inning in which he is used. Manager Dave Roberts said the bullpen’s performance was “costly” and indicated he was looking for additional options, noting that none of his relievers were “throwing the baseball great.”

The defeat dropped the Dodgers two games behind the Brewers in the National League standings and half a game behind the Atlanta Braves. The game also featured a record-tying home run by Max Muncy, his 131st at Dodger Stadium, tying Eric Karros for the most in the venue’s history.

Roberts acknowledged that injuries have limited his bullpen, with Brock Stewart and Will Klein on the injured list, and that recent performances from other relievers have been inconsistent. He said the team must get other pitchers on track before considering a closer-by-committee approach, but emphasized that Díaz will remain in his role while he works to regain effectiveness.