MLBCincinnati Reds
Reds' Graham Ashcraft Placed on 60-Day IL with UCL Sprain
The Cincinnati Reds have placed reliever Graham Ashcraft on the 60-day injured list with a UCL sprain in his right elbow. This is a signific...
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MLBCincinnati Reds
Reds Closer Alexis Díaz on Injured List, Bullpen Role Up for Grabs
about 1 year agoUS
The Cincinnati Reds will start the 2025 season without their closer, Alexis Díaz, who has been placed on the injured list due to a left hamstring inflammation. This leaves the Reds' closer role uncertain as the regular season approaches.
Key Insights
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Alexis Díaz, 2023 All-Star, will start the season on the IL with a left hamstring injury.
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Manager Terry Francona hasn't named a replacement closer, stating it's not necessary yet.
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Potential closer candidates include newcomers Scott Barlow and Taylor Rogers, and former starter Graham Ashcraft.
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Díaz struggled in spring training, with command issues and no clean innings.
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This injury clouds the picture at the back end of the Reds' bullpen.
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Why this matters:: The closer role is crucial for securing wins, and the uncertainty adds pressure on the Reds' bullpen and new manager Terry Francona.
In-Depth Analysis
Alexis Díaz's injury occurred during pitchers' fielding practice early in Spring Training, and he never seemed to find his form afterwards. Despite reporting to camp in “great shape,” according to manager Terry Francona, Díaz’s attempts to pitch around the injury led to altered mechanics, specifically with his lead leg. The team is prioritizing getting him fully healthy rather than rushing him back, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with the closer role. The Reds have several internal candidates that could take on the 9th inning, but would ideally like for Diaz to claim that spot back. With Díaz on the IL, non-roster right-hander Ian Gibaut is expected to make the Opening Day roster.
FAQs
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Q: When will Alexis Díaz return?
The Reds have not set a timetable for his return.
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Q: Who will be the Reds closer in Díaz's absence?
The Reds have several options, including Scott Barlow, Taylor Rogers, and Graham Ashcraft, but have not yet named a replacement.
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Q: How did Diaz injure his hamstring?
He suffered the injury during a pitchers' fielding practice early in Spring Training.
Key Takeaways
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The Reds' bullpen strategy is uncertain at the start of the season, impacting their ability to close out games.
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The team is prioritizing Díaz's long-term health over immediate needs, emphasizing player well-being.
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Fans should watch for how the closer situation develops and how different pitchers perform in high-pressure situations.
Discussion
Do you think the Reds should stick with a designated closer, or utilize a closer-by-committee approach? Let us know! Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources & References
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