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MLBCincinnati Reds
Reds Strengthen Roster: McLain, Diaz, and Hays Activated From Injured List
about 1 year agoUS
The Cincinnati Reds received a significant boost on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, activating three key players—infielder Matt McLain, relief pitcher Alexis Diaz, and outfielder Austin Hays—from the injured list ahead of their series against the Seattle Mariners. This marks the first time this season the surging Reds will have their full complement of key players available.
Key Insights
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Triple Activation:: INF Matt McLain (hamstring), RHP Alexis Diaz (hamstring), and OF Austin Hays (calf) were all activated from the injured list.
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Roster Moves:: To make space, OF Jacob Hurtubise and INF Noelvi Marte were optioned to Triple-A Louisville. Diaz fills the spot vacated by LHP Sam Moll (shoulder impingement).
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Team Momentum:: The activations come as the Reds have won five of their last six games, including a recent series sweep against Pittsburgh.
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Why this matters:: These returns significantly strengthen the Reds' lineup, infield depth, and bullpen options as they look to continue their positive momentum. It provides manager Terry Francona with more strategic flexibility.
In-Depth Analysis
The return of these three players is timely for Cincinnati. Matt McLain, who missed much of last year with a shoulder injury, started 2025 strongly with three home runs in his first four games before landing on the IL with a hamstring strain. He immediately slotted back into the lineup at second base, batting second.
Austin Hays makes his Reds debut after signing a one-year deal in the offseason. Recovered from a calf strain suffered late in spring training, he brings a solid bat (hitting .260/.312/.433 from 2021-24 with Baltimore and Philadelphia) and was inserted as the designated hitter, batting fifth.
The situation with Alexis Diaz is intriguing. The 2023 All-Star, who saved 75 games for the Reds since 2022, returns from a hamstring issue that delayed his start to the season. After mixed results in his rehab assignment and working on mechanics, it remains unclear if he will immediately reclaim the closer role. Emilio Pagán has performed admirably in his absence, converting all four save opportunities with a 1.23 ERA. Diaz's return adds a high-leverage arm, but his exact role might evolve.
FAQs
Who made room on the roster for the returning players?
Outfielder Jacob Hurtubise and infielder Noelvi Marte were optioned to Triple-A Louisville. Left-hander Sam Moll was also placed on the 15-day injured list earlier, opening a spot for Diaz.
Will Alexis Diaz be the Reds' closer again?
It's not guaranteed. Emilio Pagán has closed games effectively in Diaz's absence. Manager Terry Francona indicated the team would evaluate Diaz's health, performance, and mechanics. His role could depend on game situations initially.
When did these players get injured?
McLain suffered a hamstring strain retroactive to April 5th. Diaz dealt with his hamstring issue from the start of spring training. Hays strained his calf on the final day of spring training.
Key Takeaways
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The Reds' offense and infield depth receive a significant boost with McLain's return and Hays' debut.
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The bullpen gains a potentially dominant arm in Diaz, though his specific role needs clarification alongside the effective Emilio Pagán.
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With key players returning and recent success, the Reds appear better equipped to compete in the NL Central.
Discussion
With McLain, Diaz, and Hays back, how much better are the Reds positioned for the rest of the season? Will Diaz reclaim the closer role? Let us know your thoughts!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
Sources & References
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Source 2: WLWT Cincinnati
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Source 3: MLB.com
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