The 2025 Cincinnati Reds have shown both extremes—explosive on offense one day, silent the next. Now sitting at 8-8 and coming off their first sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 2021, the Reds are hoping to keep the momentum going after winning six of their last eight games.
One notable absence so far has been former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz, who has been sidelined due to injury. In his place, Cincinnati has opted for a closer-by-committee strategy. However, Díaz was seen back in the clubhouse on Sunday, suggesting a return could be close, although he hadn’t yet been activated.
On their Monday off day, the Reds announced that reliever Sam Moll has been placed on the 15-day injured list (retroactive to April 11) due to a left shoulder impingement—his third such stint since 2024. Moll has clearly not been himself this season, allowing four runs, three hits, and three walks in just two innings across three outings.
Moll was a major contributor when the Reds acquired him in 2023, finishing that season with a 0.73 ERA and 645 ERA+ in 25 appearances. While he remained solid in 2024, his recent struggles suggest something has been off.
With the roster move in place and Díaz already with the team, a formal activation could happen as soon as Tuesday. Other key players like Austin Hays and Tyler Stephenson are also nearing returns, but Díaz’s comeback could be particularly impactful.
When Díaz is at his best, he’s among the elite relievers in the league. However, inconsistency and a hamstring issue this spring have raised questions. Whether he can return to form remains to be seen.
