Los Angeles Dodgers Acquire All-Star Pitcher From Reds

May 30, 2025 ,
Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Diaz pitches during 2024 game.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have made another classic high-upside bullpen move, acquiring former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for pitching prospect Mike Villani. 

Díaz, who saved 37 games in 2023, struggled badly this season and was demoted to Triple-A Louisville after posting a 12.00 ERA across six early-season appearances. The Dodgers are hoping their development system can help him rebound—and fast.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers moved reliever Evan Phillips to the 60-day injured list. Phillips is one of 14 injured pitchers currently sidelined for Los Angeles, including big names like Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Brusdar Graterol, and Kirby Yates. The bullpen is in urgent need of reinforcements, and Díaz’s power arm offers just that—if the Dodgers can help him regain control and confidence.

Díaz Offers High-Risk, High-Reward Potential for L.A.

Díaz, 28, is just two years removed from a breakout season in which he finished with a 3.07 ERA, 37 saves, and 86 strikeouts in 67.1 innings. But since mid-2024, his command has wavered, and his effectiveness dropped sharply. He gave up eight runs and four homers in just six innings this season before being optioned. Still, he owns a career 3.21 ERA and has one of the filthiest sliders in the game when he’s on.

The Dodgers’ track record with reclamation projects makes this a smart gamble. If Díaz returns to form, he could easily slide into a key late-inning role as the team chases another deep postseason run. For a bullpen currently duct-taped together, his upside is well worth the low cost of a rookie-ball reliever.

Reds Get Prospect Mike Villani in Return

Cincinnati’s return in the deal is right-hander Mike Villani, a 22-year-old reliever who just debuted in the Arizona Complex League. Villani, a 13th-round pick in 2024 out of Long Beach State, led the Big West with 10 saves last season and now joins a Reds system already rich in pitching prospects.

With Díaz making $4.5 million this year and clearly outside Cincinnati’s long-term plans, the Reds opted for a fresh start. Villani gives them a controllable, developmental arm while clearing a 40-man roster spot for future moves.

Photo Credit:  Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK

Go To: NFL Rumors | NBA Rumors | NHL Rumors