Corbin Carroll, a standout player for the Diamondbacks, broke a hamate bone in his right hand during batting practice. He’s set to have surgery today, which means he will miss most of spring training and likely start the 2026 season on the injured list.
This setback is tough for both Carroll and the team. He was named the 2023 National League Rookie of the Year and earned All-Star honors twice, finishing sixth in MVP voting last season. Carroll had an impressive batting average of .259, with 31 home runs and 32 stolen bases. His baserunning was exceptional, making him a key player for the Diamondbacks.
While the recovery timeline for hamate injuries varies, players typically need four to eight weeks to heal. However, such injuries can linger, affecting a player’s power at the plate. Historical data shows that both Jackson Holliday and Francisco Lindor faced similar challenges, underscoring the uncertainty that Carroll’s injury introduces.
Carroll’s absence leaves the Diamondbacks with a thinner outfield than before. They recently traded Jake McCarthy and are dealing with Lourdes Gurriel Jr.’s ongoing recovery from a torn ACL. Top prospect Jordan Lawlar has moved to the outfield but will likely face challenges stepping into a starting role alongside Alek Thomas, whose performance has not yet lived up to expectations since becoming a major leaguer.
Arizona now relies heavily on Lawlar and Thomas. Pavin Smith might fill an outfield corner position, despite not being an ideal defender. Carlos Santana, signed to strengthen the infield, may also play some outfield as the team juggles its roster. Other options like Jorge Barrosa and Tim Tawa have limited experience at the major league level, adding to the team’s uncertainty.
In an interesting twist, the Diamondbacks could consider promoting Ryan Waldschmidt, their 2024 first-round pick. At just 23, he had a stellar season in the lower leagues, with a batting average of .289 and 29 stolen bases, and ranks as the No. 48 prospect by Baseball America.
The team might also explore signing a veteran outfielder to bolster their lineup. Notable players like Mike Tauchman and Mark Canha are still searching for teams. As spring training progresses, the Diamondbacks may find valuable additions through these avenues to provide the necessary depth while navigating Carroll’s injury.
This situation highlights the unpredictability of baseball and the need for teams to adapt quickly. With injuries impacting rosters every season, decisions made now could shape the Diamondbacks’ success moving forward.
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