Reds option former All-Star closer Díaz to minor leagues

The Cincinnati Reds announced Thursday they optioned former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz to Triple-A Louisville.

Right-hander Luis Mey was recalled in a corresponding move.

Díaz, 28, delivered one of the worst outings of his career Wednesday against the St. Louis Cardinals. He was called upon in the top of the ninth with the Reds trailing 1-0 but coughed up back-to-back-to-back home runs, ultimately leaving his team in a 6-0 hole.

"We decided to let him try to figure out, get right in Triple-A," Reds manager Terry Francona said, according to Jeff Wallner of The Associated Press. "The consistency just isn't there. It's difficult to hear that, I'm sure. We don't want that to derail him either."

The righty has been a shell of his former self since returning from the injured list, walking five batters and allowing eight hits in six innings pitched.

Díaz has posted just a 4.5 K/9 through six appearances this year, the lowest of his career by far. He recorded an 8.8 K/9 in 2024 after managing an elite 11.5 or better in his first two seasons.

"We told him, 'Hey, we're not giving up on you. Just want you to be more consistent,'" Francona said. "We need him to help us win."

Veteran reliever Emilio Pagán appears likely to continue closing games for the Reds. He has eight saves so far this season.