Dodgers are Calling Up One-Time Closer Alexis Díaz

Dodgers Call Up Reliever Alexis Díaz from Minors

Poised for a Comeback?

Since the trade, Díaz had been in Arizona before being transferred to Triple-A Oklahoma City, recovering and refining his repertoire. However, thus far, the results have been less than ideal. In 4 2/3 innings, he has allowed five runs, walked seven, and hit two batters. This is not really a surprise, as he has always struggled with his command.

The Silver Lining

The one-time All-Star has had a level of success, as he had an ERA of 3.99 with  56 saves over the 2023-2024 seasons. The right-hander’s stuff is capable of inducing swing and miss. The Dodgers will likely use him in middle relief for now because of the velocity fall and high walk rate.

Necessary Reinforcements

Once again, Los Angeles is dealing with a pitching carousel because of injuries. Díaz was picked up for pitching depth shortly before it was announced that reliever Evan Phillips would be out for the rest of the season due to Tommy John surgery. In addition, Blake Treinen has been on the injured list since April. Michael Kopech has been sidelined for most of the season as well with different injuries.

The Good News

Treinen is scheduled to go on a rehab assignment. If all goes well, he will be activated after the All-Star Break.  The question is, in the meantime, will Díaz be a stop-gap measure or a reliable arm in the Dodger bullpen?