Deadspin | Dodgers recall Alexis Diaz to join bullpen

Cincinnati Reds pitcher Alexis Diaz (43) delivers the pitch in the ninth inning of the MLB game at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024. Cincinnati Reds defeated Houston Astros 1-0.

The Los Angeles Dodgers recalled Alexis Diaz, the former All-Star closer they acquired from the Cincinnati Reds in May, ahead of their road game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday.

Manager Dave Roberts confirmed to reporters that Diaz would be active on Tuesday. In a corresponding move, Los Angeles optioned right-hander Julian Fernandez.

Los Angeles traded minor league right-hander Mike Vilani to Cincinnati on May 29 for Diaz, who has since pitched 4 2/3 innings across six appearances for Triple-A Oklahoma City. Diaz allowed five runs, walked seven batters and struck out three.

Diaz, 28, was an All-Star selection in 2023 but lost his closer role in Cincinnati to Emilio Pagan earlier this season. He has appeared in just six big-league games in 2025 and allowed eight runs over six innings for a 12.00 ERA. The Reds optioned Diaz to Triple-A on May 1.

Before his rough patch, Diaz amassed 75 saves and an 18-14 record over his first three major league seasons, all with Cincinnati. He owns a career 3.21 ERA.

Fernandez, 29, was recalled and made his team debut Monday, yielding two runs on two hits in two innings of mop-up work in the Dodgers’ 9-1 loss to Milwaukee.

The ailing Dodgers, losers of four straight, could use all the help they can get. They have been outscored 38-7 during their current slide, and their bullpen ranks 24th in the major leagues in ERA (4.46).

–Field Level Media