Dodgers Trade Former All-Star Reliever Alexis Díaz from Reds

The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for minor league right-hander Mike Villani. Díaz, once a promising reliever with a mid-90s fastball and excellent slider, has struggled recently, posting a 3.99 ERA in 2024 and being demoted to Triple-A in 2025 due to poor performance and injury setbacks. Despite these challenges, the Dodgers believe Díaz can rebound and provide much-needed depth to their injury-depleted bullpen. Villani, a 22-year-old drafted in the 13th round in 2024, has pitched only two innings in rookie ball and is viewed as a developmental prospect by the Reds. The trade is considered a low-risk, high-reward move for the Dodgers, who face an urgent need for bullpen reinforcements, while the Reds appear ready to move on from Díaz. The deal also highlights the contrasting bullpen needs of the Dodgers and other teams like the Angels, who reportedly passed on acquiring Díaz despite their own struggles.