Alexis Diaz has been sidelined from Cactus League action after tweaking his hamstring during pitchers’ fielding practice about a week ago, but said Monday he feels “great,” per team reports.

Fantasy Impact

Diaz is eyeing a weekend return to the mound, and if he ramps up without hiccups, he’s on track to lock down saves as Cincinnati’s closer for Opening Day. The righty’s 2024 wasn’t lights-out—3.99 ERA, 22.7% strikeout rate—so his leash might be short. Fantasy managers can pencil him in for early saves in most leagues, but keep an eye on his spring to gauge that ninth-inning grip.

Alexis Diaz is expected to make his Cactus League debut this weekend.

Fantasy Impact

Diaz was slowed down by a hamstring injury early in camp. He should have plenty of time to get fully healthy for the start of the season.

Alexis Diaz delivered a clean inning to notch a save as the Reds edged out the Braves 1-0.

Fantasy Impact

Diaz's outing was efficient, requiring only 12 pitches to secure the game without allowing any hits, walks, or runs, although he didn't record any strikeouts. This performance lowers his season ERA slightly but remains a concern at 4.30, coupled with a WHIP of 1.30. Despite these less-than-stellar metrics, Diaz's ability to convert saves, now totaling 27, keeps him relevant in fantasy leagues primarily for his save potential. However, his moderate strikeout rate (8.8 K/9) and high FIP (4.75) suggest that fantasy managers should temper expectations and remain cautious, especially in leagues where ERA and WHIP heavily influence scoring.

Alexis Diaz pitched a clean inning on Sunday against the Mets.

Fantasy Impact

Diaz was able to work a clean inning with two strikeouts for his 26th save on the season.

Alexis Diaz delivered a flawless performance, tossing a clean inning with one strikeout to notch a save as the Reds edged out the Astros 1-0 on Thursday.

Fantasy Impact

This outing was a breath of fresh air for Diaz, who has been battling a bloated 4.56 ERA and a 1.38 WHIP throughout the season. His ability to secure the game without allowing any hits or walks is a positive sign, but his overall season metrics, including a concerning 4.83 FIP and a low 1.71 strikeout-to-walk ratio, suggest that consistency remains an issue. Fantasy managers should remain cautious, as his high ERA and WHIP indicate potential volatility despite his 25th save. Diaz's performance in high-pressure situations is commendable, but his season-long inconsistencies might keep him as a risky play in fantasy lineups.