The Tampa Bay Rays have reinstated first baseman Yandy Diaz from the restricted list, providing a boost to their lineup as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the American League.
Diaz had missed the team’s recent seven-game road trip due to a family matter, but he is now back with the team and ready to contribute. It is unclear at this time if Diaz will be in the lineup for the Rays’ game against the Cincinnati Reds on Friday night in St. Petersburg, Florida.
The Rays made room for Diaz on the roster by trading outfielder Randy Arozarena to the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. Regular third baseman Isaac Paredes had been filling in at first base in Diaz’s absence, and he had a strong performance on Thursday against the Toronto Blue Jays, recording two hits and four RBIs to break out of a recent slump.
Diaz, who will turn 33 on August 8, has been a key contributor to the Rays’ success this season. He is currently second on the team with a .273 batting average and leads the team with 104 hits. In 94 games, Diaz has tallied eight home runs and 46 RBIs.
Last season, Diaz made a significant impact for the Rays by hitting a club-record .330 to win the American League batting title. Throughout his career, Diaz has proven to be a consistent hitter, boasting a .288 batting average with 69 home runs and 322 RBIs in 703 games split between the Cleveland franchise and the Rays.
With Diaz back in the lineup, the Rays will look to continue their strong play and secure a postseason berth as they compete in a competitive AL East division. Diaz’s presence provides a much-needed offensive boost for the team, and his return should bolster their chances of making a deep playoff run.
–Field Level Media
