Dodgers Trading for All-Star Closer From NL Central Squad in Huge Move

The Los Angeles Dodgers are acquiring former All-Star closer Alexis Diaz from the Cincinnati Reds, per multiple reports.

Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman of the New York Post were first to report on the deal.

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In return, the Dodgers are sending 2024 13th-round pick Mike Villani, a right-handed pitcher who has made two appearances at Rookie Ball this season (click here to learn more about Villani).

As for Diaz, the 28-year-old was optioned to Triple-A with the Reds after struggling mightily this season, allowing eight earned runs over six innings for a 12.00 ERA.

However, he’s just two years removed from an All-Star season in 2023 when he made 71 appearances, sporting a 3.07 ERA with 37 saves and 86 strikeouts over 67.1 innings pitched.

Last year, Diaz was still solid, sporting a 3.99 ERA over 56.1 innings pitched. However, the Reds quickly optioned him to Triple-A after his early season struggles. Across 14 appearances in Triple-A this year, he has a 4.61 ERA.

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According to Jack Harris of the LA Times, Diaz will report to Arizona, where he’ll likely work with the organization to get back to his 2023 form.

Diaz is essentially a two-pitch pitcher, relying on a four-seam fastball and a slider. His fastball velocity averaged 95.7 mph in 2022. It dropped to 93 mph this year.

Photo Credit: Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

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