The Cincinnati Reds lineup is as close to full strength as it has been since the season opened with a flurry of roster moves Tuesday that included activating Austin Hays and Matt McLain from the injured list.
The moves come as the Reds open a three-game home series against the Seattle Mariners, riding a 5-1 hot streak after a three-game weekend sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Hays has been on the IL since a strained calf developed on the final day of spring training and makes his Reds debut Tuesday after signing a $5 million free agent deal in the offseason and looking impressive in spring training.
McLain, who missed all of last season with a shoulder injury, opened as the Reds’ most productive hitter before nagging hamstring tightness sidelined him during the Milwaukee road series a week and a half ago.
The only regular who remains on the injured list is catcher Tyler Stephenson (oblique), who was recently cleared to restart baseball activities and is working toward a minor-league rehab assignment.
In other moves Tuesday, former All-Star closer Alexis Díaz was activated from the IL following a minor-league rehab assignment to work on delivery issues the team said was related to an early spring hamstring tweak. It was not immediately clear what role he will fill in his return to the bullpen.
In Díaz’ absence, veteran Emilio Pagán has gone 4-for-4 in save chances and produced a 1.23 ERA.
In corresponding roster moves Tuesday, outfielder Jacob Hurtubise and infielder Noelvi Marte were optioned to Triple-A Louisville.
Díaz’ roster opening was created Monday when the Reds put left-hander Sam Moll on the IL because of a shoulder impingement.
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