Diaz Replaces Cishek as Mariners Closer

SEATTLE (AP) — Edwin Diaz will take over as the Seattle Mariners closer just two months removed from Double-A, replacing struggling Steve Cishek.

Manager Scott Servais announced the decision Tuesday. Cishek blew a three-run lead Sunday in a loss to the Cubs then allowed a tiebreaking homer to Mookie Betts in the ninth inning of a loss against Boston on Monday night.

Diaz was promoted from Jackson on June 4 and has a 1.80 ERA in 24 appearances. The 22-year-old struck out 49 and walked seven over 25 innings and held opponents scoreless in 20 of his appearances.

Diaz says he likes "to pitch under pressure" and promised to "do the same job I do in the seventh or eighth, get three outs."