Atlanta Braves Claim All-Star Closer Off Waivers From Dodgers
Atlanta had an open 40-man spot, so no corresponding move was needed as Diaz joins the organization for the stretch run.
#Braves claimed RHP Alexis Díaz off waivers from the Dodgers.
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienATL) September 7, 2025
Can the Braves revive Alexis Diaz after the waiver claim?
Diaz, 29 later this month, owns a 7.80 ERA across 15 MLB appearances this season, with a 16.9% strikeout rate and 9.9% walk rate. He struggled at Triple-A as well, but the upside is obvious. From 2022 to 2023, he posted a 2.47 ERA with 75 saves, an All-Star nod, and a 31.2% strikeout rate. The raw stuff backed a late-inning profile even with command volatility.
Alexis Diaz, 28, has been DFA'd.
— Remi Bunikiewicz (@RBunikiewicz) September 4, 2025
Younger brother of star closer Edwin Diaz, Alexis is chock-full of potential but performing well-below expectations.
He can't influence a play-off roster but is worth a stash.
Performance drop-off related to a year-over-year velo decline.
4S: pic.twitter.com/Y1XihERN9G
Low-risk flyer with upside for 2026
For the Atlanta Braves, this is a low-risk add with two more years of arbitration control if they like what they see. If Diaz trends back toward his earlier form, he becomes a real late-inning option next season.
If not, he is an easy non-tender. In a season where the bullpen has been in flux, taking a no-cost swing on a once-elite arm makes sense.
Photo Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
