The Padres are reportedly leaning toward starting Diaz for Saturday's game against the Royals, AJ Cassavell of MLB.com reports.

With Jarred Cosart (elbow) being placed on the 10-day disabled list Tuesday, the Padres need to select a pitching replacement for Saturday's game against the Royals. Though Diaz appears to be the likely choice, there's no denying that the 22-year-old has been overmatched by big-league hitting in the early going this season. Through 23 innings of relief work, Diaz has posted a 7.83 ERA with an uninspiring 16:12 K:BB ratio. Expect an official announcement from the team in the coming days.