The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced the acquisition of reliever Alexis Diaz from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for pitching prospect Mike Villani. This move comes as the Dodgers continue to face significant challenges within their pitching staff due to a rash of injuries affecting key players.

This season has seen the Dodgers dealing with the injuries of starters Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Roki Sasaki, along with relievers Blake Treinen, Evan Phillips, and Kirby Yates, all of whom are currently on the injured list. Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers have maintained a competitive stance largely due to their potent offense, even as their pitching ranks 21st in the majors with a 4.09 ERA.

Alexis Diaz, a 28-year-old right-hander, enjoyed a standout year in 2023, earning an All-Star selection after posting a 3.07 ERA, a 1.19 WHIP, and 86 strikeouts across 67.1 innings while securing 37 saves in 40 opportunities. However, his performance has been inconsistent this season following a stint on the injured list due to a left hamstring injury. Upon his return, Diaz recorded a troubling 12.00 ERA and 2.17 WHIP over six appearances, which led to his reassignment to Triple-A Louisville. Cincinnati's president of baseball operations, Nick Krall, articulated that a change in environment might benefit Diaz, as the team had decided to move on due to his current struggles and the emergence of other players in the bullpen.