ALEXIS DIAZ TO THE DODGERS
The Los Angeles Dodgers acquired pitcher Alexis Diaz from the Cincinnati Reds for pitcher Mike Villani.
What does it give the Los Angeles Dodgers
Diaz is an interesting addition, as the Dodgers bullpen has been dealing with injuries and an inconsistent closer in Tanner Scott. Diaz, the former Reds closer, was demoted early this season, and his struggles have continued in the minors. He will likely need to turn it around at Triple-A before getting a look in the MLB bullpen. Still, he's a decent low-risk pickup for LA.
What does it give the Cincinnati Reds
This is a disappointing trade for the Reds, considering Diaz was recently their closer. They were able to get a younger pitcher in return. Villani, a 13th-round pick in the 2024 draft, is a right-handed reliever who has pitched in high-leverage situations early in his career. He isn't a highly ranked prospect, but he might have more of a future in Cincinnati's organization than Diaz did at this point.
Fantasy impact
If Diaz can earn a call up to the Dodgers, he'd be worth a look in fantasy leagues. This season has been a disaster for him, though, so take a wait and see approach. He'll need to prove himself in the minors first.
