Scouting Report: Because of his low three-quarters slot, Diaz has an exceptionally low release point. He has a very low approach angle on his 93-97 mph fastball. Diaz’s above-average fastball has enough velocity to keep hitters looking for it, but really it’s just the appetizer for his plus slider that he throws every bit as much as his fastball. It’s thrown at 83-88 mph and looks like his fastball coming out of his hand. Diaz can throw it in the zone or out depending on the situation, flipping between a short, cutterish version as well as a bigger one that runs away from hitters’ bats. His command is average, but he has below-average control thanks to his slider-heavy approach.
The Future: The best thing a pitcher can be is unusual. If you can throw hard and still be unlike anyone else hitters normally see, all the better. Diaz is a fireballer who has an unusual release point and a nice two-pitch mix. He could help Cincinnati at some point in 2022.
