Reds' Manager Terry Francona Provides Injury Updates on Austin Hays and Alexis Diaz

Cincinnati Reds' manager Terry Francona provided injury updates ahead of Sunday's series finale against the San Francisco Giants for outfielder Austin Hays and closer, Alexis Diaz.

If all goes well, Hays plans to be back for the Pirates series starting on Friday, April 11.

“It was good news with the MRI that it was a mild strain," Hays told Charlie Goldsmith. "Similar to what I felt like I had last year when it came on and I made the decision to play through it. I ended up Grade 2-ing it.”

Hays had an impressive spring, slashing .310/.370/.690 with eight extra-base hits in 16 spring training games.

Francona didn't provide an update on when we might see Diaz back with the Reds but mentioned he has been pitching and doing some bullpen work.

“Stability with that front leg," Francona said. "That’s probably the biggest thing. Then incorporating that in his delivery where all of a sudden that becomes comfortable and second nature so he’s not trying to pitch thinking about someone else.”

Diaz had 17 saves in 2023 and 28 saves last season but really struggled with his command in spring training before being placed on the injured list.

You can see Charlie's full announcement below: