Diamondbacks could pressure Reds into risky bullpen move fans may regret

The Arizona Diamondbacks' co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez were both placed on the injured list recently, and the team is reportedly looking for bullpen help. Reds fans may immediately think of Alexis Díaz as a potential option for the D-backs, but Cincinnati should wait before making such a knee-jerk type of move.

The Reds surplus of bullpen talent has shined recently, but the former closer has not. Díaz has pitched himself back to Triple-A Louisville after two gaudy performances since his return from injury. The former All-Star was dominant in 2023, but struggled last season and has been dreadful to begin the 2025 season.

Díaz allowed eight runs and walked five over six innings of work while on Cincy's active roster. Though a small sample size, his strikeout stuff is seemingly gone after posting a meager 4.5 K/9 with an awful 7.5 BB/9. So why not trade him? He's a shell of his 2023 form and Emilio Pagán, Tony Santillan and Graham Ashcraft can certainly hold their own in the Reds bullpen.

Diamondbacks could pressure the Reds into trading Alexis Diaz

Díaz's trade value is at a career low, meaning the Reds would likely gain next-to nothing in return. If traded now, the Reds would receive a return worse than when the club traded former star-closer Raisel Iglesias; it's not worth it. The trip to Triple-A could help Díaz regain his confidence and find the strike zone, but that uncertainty can't happen in Cincinnati.

While times are tough for Díaz, there is hope. The 28-year-old has dominated in stretches over his career but lack of command has certainly contributed to his ineffectiveness. Over his career, Díaz owns a modest 3.21 ERA and 4.9 BB/9; wildness is a part of his game. His saves opportunities, while shutdown at times, often featured walks and dramatics, but he was able to get through it.

His 65 saves over the previous two seasons ranks among the top in the game and Reds fans want him to succeed. If a stint in Triple-A helps Díaz, the Reds bullpen will be bolstered even more. With the recent promotion of flamethrower Luis Mey and Zach Maxwell's dominant start in Triple-A, the Reds above-average bullpen is only looking better. If Díaz can't figure it out, he'll likely be replaced for good.

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