Alexis Díaz: Everything you need to know

The Rangers outrighted Diaz to Triple-A Round Rock on Sunday. After signing a one-year deal with Texas in December, Diaz entered spring training with a chance to stake his claim to the closer's job in an unsettled Rangers bullpen. Diaz's lack of command during spring training ultimately resulted in him not only falling short in his bid for a high-leverage role, but it also cost him his spot on the 40-man roster. He'll remain in the Texas organization after drawing no interest on the waiver wire upon yielding eight earned runs on three hits and four walks over 1.2 innings in the Cactus League.

The Rangers designated Diaz for assignment Friday. Diaz entered spring training with a chance at winning Texas' closer job, but he was shelled this spring, allowing eight earned runs on three hits and four walks across 1.2 innings of work spanning three relief appearances. He faced 13 batters and retired just five, striking out one. With Diaz out of the picture, Robert Garcia and Chris Martin are the favorites for saves for the Rangers.

Rangers manager Skip Schumaker said Wednesday that Diaz has a chance to see saves for the club this season, but the manager wants to see Diaz work in spring training games first, Jeff Wilson of AllDLLS.com reports. Schumaker listed Robert Garcia and Chris Martin as the initial favorites to close games, but he left the door open for Diaz. The 29-year-old Diaz notched 75 saves for the Reds from 2022-2024, but he fell apart in 2025, posting an 8.15 ERA and 1.53 WHIP over 17.2 innings between three different teams. It's a good opportunity for Diaz to re-establish himself on a team lacking bullpen clarity, but he has a lot to prove before fantasy managers can trust him again.