5 most likely trade destinations for Alexis Díaz if latest Reds rumors gain momentum

Are the Reds looking to trade their closer?

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Diaz
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Diaz | Jason Mowry/GettyImages

Trade rumors and speculation abound this time of year. The MLB Winter Meetings may be in the rearview mirror, but the Hot Stove season is still alive and well. It was recently reported by a freelance MLB reporter on X that the Reds are listening to offers for both Alexis Díaz and Spencer Steer.

Given the Reds' core of young relievers like Luis Mey, Tony Santillan, and Zach Maxwell, plus the likelihood of pitchers like Graham Ashcraft and Connor Phillips moving to the bullpen, the idea of trading Díaz makes sense.

Though the Tampa Bay Rays and Washington Nationals were linked in the report, there are a number of other teams who would love to have Díaz in their bullpen. In addition to the Rays and Nats, what other clubs might be interested in trading for Díaz?

5 most likely trade destinations for Alexis Díaz if latest Reds rumors gain momentum

New York Yankees

The New York Yankees already added former Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams this offseason, but don't be surprised if Brian Cashman has his eye on addition reinforcements. The Yanks lost Clay Holmes this offseason, and their second-best reliever in 2024 was former Reds' pitcher Luke Weaver.

Baltimore Orioles

The Baltimore Orioles were without their closer, Felix Bautista, last season. The right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery, and then suffered complications during the rehab process. At the moment, Bautista's status for 2025 is still up in the air, and the O's could use some insurance at the backend of their bullpen.

Philadephia Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies have been rather quiet this offseason. Last season, the Phillies traded for Carlos Estéves, but the former Los Angeles Angels closer is currently a free agent. Philly also lost Jeff Hoffman to free agency, and trading for an arm like Díaz's would certainly improve their championship aspirations heading into the 2025 season. This feels like the type of move Dave Dombrowski would make.

New York Mets

This has been whispered about for years now. Alexis' older brother, Edwin Díaz, is the closer for the New York Mets. Both pitchers played on the same team during the World Baseball Classic in 2023 and there's a desire for both players to pitch for the same Major League organization as well. There's little doubt that this would be Alexis' preferred destination if the Reds truly intend to trade him this winter. Díaz's value to the Mets could be worth more than just his on-field performance.

Texas Rangers

The 2023 World Series champions took a step backward last season. But Texas Rangers GM Chris Young is looking to make some moves this offseason, and adding Díaz to their bullpen would help vault them atop the AL West heading into next season. The Rangers have given up on Jose Leclerc and Kirby Yates, 38, is a free agent. Díaz would fit quite nicely in Arlington next season.

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