The Diamondbacks made some notable roster changes this week. Catcher Gabriel Moreno is out with an oblique strain and was placed on the 10-day injured list, starting retroactively from April 11. To fill his spot, the team called up catcher Aramis Garcia from Triple-A. He’ll work alongside veterans James McCann and 26-year-old Adrian Del Castillo.
Additionally, first baseman Pavin Smith moved from the 10-day IL to the 60-day IL, making space for Garcia on the 40-man roster. The team also welcomed back right-hander Merrill Kelly from the 15-day injured list, while right-hander Taylor Rashi was optioned to Triple-A Reno.
Moreno initially missed three games with what was thought to be a back issue. Estimates suggest that even minor oblique strains can keep a player out for nearly a month. Moreno, a former top prospect, has been impressive at the plate this season, hitting .275 with a solid 45 plate appearances.
With Moreno out, the D-backs can mix and match catchers based on pitch type. Del Castillo, a lefty, is set to face right-handed pitchers, while righty McCann will take on southpaws. Garcia offers additional depth and some experience at first base, although he is likely to serve as the third catcher. Del Castillo, meanwhile, has had limited opportunities in the majors due to Moreno’s presence but has shown promise with a .276 average in his big league appearances and a strong .292 average in the Pacific Coast League.
Garcia has had a modest career, hitting .208 in 331 plate appearances over six seasons. He has never exceeded 115 plate appearances in a single year but has fared better in Triple-A with a .240 average over nearly 1,400 at-bats.
Kelly’s return was anticipated. The team moved Brandon Pfaadt to the bullpen to make way for Kelly in the rotation. Kelly, who recently signed a two-year $40M deal with the D-backs, previously thrived in Texas after a trade that brought three pitching prospects to Arizona.
Tonight, Kelly will make his season debut against the Orioles. He faced challenges during spring training due to back discomfort, allowing him only two exhibition starts. He managed five shutout innings in a rehab outing with Triple-A Reno, but he may be on a pitch limit as he works back into form.
This season presents a new set of challenges and opportunities for the Diamondbacks. As they navigate injuries and roster changes, it’s vital for younger players to step up and make their mark. As of now, the team seems poised to adapt and make the most of their situation. The performance of these new dynamics could be a crucial factor in their season ahead.
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