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 find themselves grappling with injuries within their pitching staff once again this season. Starters Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Roki Sasaki, along with relievers Blake Treinen, Evan Phillips, and Kirby Yates, are currently on the injured list due to various ailments. Despite these challenges, the Dodgers continue to secure victories, largely attributed to their impressive offensive capabilities, even as their pitching ranks struggle with a 4.09 ERA, placing them 21st in Major League Baseball.

Alexis Diaz, a 28-year-old reliever, was named an All-Star during the 2023 season after showcasing a remarkable performance with a 3.07 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 86 strikeouts across 67.1 innings, successfully saving 37 of 40 opportunities. His prior season also demonstrated solid numbers, featuring a 3.99 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, and 55 strikeouts, along with 28 saves in 32 attempts. However, Diaz has faced significant difficulties in the current 2025 campaign, following a stint on the injured list as he recuperated from a left hamstring injury. Upon his return, Diaz struggled, recording a dismal 12.00 ERA and 2.17 WHIP over six appearances, prompting his subsequent demotion to Triple-A Louisville on May 1.

The Reds' decision to trade Diaz reflects their belief that a change of environment may facilitate his return to form. Cincinnati's president of baseball operations, Nick Krall, noted during a press conference that Diaz is not where he needs to be, comparing his current struggles to his performance in the first half of 2023. With Emilio Pagán currently fulfilling the closer role, the Reds have opted to move forward with other players and felt this was the right moment to make the trade. For the Dodgers, this move represents a low-risk opportunity to address their pitching needs at a modest cost, potentially yielding significant benefits if Diaz can regain his previous effectiveness.