Diaz joins Rays in camp after Classic

SARASOTA, Fla. -- Recent Rays acquisition Jumbo Diaz arrived at Tampa Bay's spring camp Wednesday.
The Rays claimed the 33-year-old right-hander off waivers from the Reds on March 10, but he was committed to play for the Dominican Republic in the World Baseball Classic, where he allowed two earned runs in 1 2/3 innings.
After throwing a brief bullpen session Wednesday, Diaz may see game situation with the Major League squad as early as Thursday, Rays manager Kevin Cash said.
"Big arm, fastball, slider. This is a guy we've talked about for a year or two that we like," Cash said. "We are happy to have him in."

The Reds placed Diaz on waivers after he allowed eight runs (three earned) on seven hits in three innings this spring. Last season with the Reds, Diaz went 1-1 with a 3.14 ERA in 45 relief appearances.
"He's pitched in some big games in the past, so we can add that to somewhat of a younger bullpen, or maybe an untested bullpen, with some of the injuries we have going," Cash said.
Duffy to be evaluated
Rays shortstop Matt Duffy will return to Charlotte, N.C., to have his ailing heel evaluated by Dr. Bob Anderson on Thursday.
Anderson performed sugery on Duffy in September to relieve left heel pain.
"He probably needs clarity more than anybody," Cash said. "It'll be a little bit of a checkup to let the doctor take a look at him to see how he's moving and stuff like that."
Duffy, who was acquired in an offseason trade with the Giants for pitcher Matt Moore, has yet to take the field this spring for the Rays, and will likely begin the season on the disabled list. He was expected to be ready for Opening Day, but setbacks in the rehab process have limited him to light drills this spring.
Tim Beckham is expected to take his place to start the season.
Rays in Minors
Right-handed pitcher Tommy Hunter, catcher Jesús Sucre and outfielder Mallex Smith did not make the trip to Sarasota, but saw time with the Rays' Minor League squad against the Boston Red Sox's Minor Leaguers in Port Charlotte.
Hunter, who is trying to claim a spot in the Rays' bullpen, threw 2 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and striking out three.
Smith went 2-for-8 and was caught stealing once. Sucre went 0-for-3.