“Reds Reinforcements: Can Diaz, McLain, and Hays Spark a Comeback Against the Mariners?”
The Cincinnati Reds are finally getting a boost—or should I say a complete power-up! For the first time this season, all significant players will take the field together, thanks to some strategic roster shifts made just before their highly anticipated showdown against the Seattle Mariners. With key players like right-hander Alexis Diaz, infielder Matt McLain, and outfielder Austin Hays back in the fold, the Reds are riding high after a thrilling five victories in their last six outings, capped off by a long-awaited series sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Diaz, who battled a left hamstring strain since spring training, has diligently made his way back, having wrapped up rehab appearances at Triple-A Louisville. He was set to step into the closer role this season, but Emilio Pagán has made it quite a challenge, converting all four save opportunities while boasting an impressive 1.23 ERA over eight games!
Out of the gate, McLain seems eager to make an impact, bouncing back from a tough year sidelined by a shoulder injury. After hitting home runs in three of his first four games, he hit a rough patch and found himself on the injured list, but he’s ready to hit second and play second base. And let’s not forget about Hays, who will be making his Reds debut as the designated hitter. After missing the first 16 games of the season due to a calf strain sustained on the cusp of spring training, he’s primed to prove his worth, especially after signing a one-year, $5 million deal with the team after a previous stint with Baltimore and Philadelphia.
To accommodate these activated players, the Reds optioned outfielder Jacob Hurtubise and infielder Noelvi Marte down to Louisville, while Diaz takes the open spot created by left-hander Sam Moll being placed on the 15-day injured list. So, as the excitement builds heading into what promises to be an electrifying series against Seattle, the hope is that this revitalized lineup will shine under the bright lights. If they keep this momentum going, who knows how far they can go?
CINCINNATI (AP) — The surging Cincinnati Reds will have all their key players for the first time this season after making a series of roster moves before Tuesday night’s game against the Seattle Mariners.
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