The defending National League champion Arizona Diamondbacks have faced a rough start to the season due to injuries in their starting pitching rotation. Despite committing a significant amount of money to free agent pitchers like Eduardo Rodriguez and Jordan Montgomery, their starting rotation has been depleted due to injuries. Rodriguez has not pitched this season, while Merrill Kelly joined him on the injured list, leaving the team with a 14-20 record. Another blow came when Zac Gallen, a key pitcher for the team, had to be scratched from a start due to a hamstring injury, further adding to the team’s challenges.
Manager Torey Lovullo has been faced with a series of setbacks as key players continue to be sidelined due to injuries. The uncertainties surrounding the health of his players have made Lovullo anxious and concerned for their well-being. With players constantly leaving the field with injuries, Lovullo is focused on protecting the athletes and ensuring their long-term health. The absence of top pitchers like Gallen, Rodriguez, and Kelly has put additional pressure on the team, forcing them to rely on their young players to step up and fill the gaps in the rotation.
Eduardo Rodriguez, who signed a lucrative contract with the Diamondbacks, has been dealing with a lat strain and shoulder tightness that has kept him sidelined for the season. Kelly, another key pitcher for the team, was diagnosed with a teres major strain in his shoulder after making only four starts. Kelly’s absence has been particularly significant, as he has been a reliable starter for the Diamondbacks with a strong performance in postseason games. Montgomery, another offseason addition, has been gradually progressing into the rotation after joining the team late in spring training.
In addition to the struggles in the starting rotation, the Diamondbacks have also been without closer Paul Sewald, who has been on the injured list with an oblique strain. Sewald, acquired from Seattle during the 2023 trade deadline, played a crucial role in stabilizing the team’s bullpen, making his absence felt even more. The team has been faced with a series of challenges due to injuries and setbacks, forcing them to rely on their young pitchers to step up and perform at a high level. The unpredictable nature of arm injuries in baseball has been a constant risk for players and teams alike.
Despite the setbacks and challenges, Manager Torey Lovullo remains optimistic and inspired by the performances of the young players in the rotation. With players like Brandon Pfaadt, Tommy Henry, and Slade Cecconi stepping up to fill the gaps, Lovullo finds energy in watching them compete at a high level. The team has had to adjust and adapt to the circumstances, taking the process one step at a time and finding inspiration in the resilience of their young players. As they navigate through the injuries and uncertainties, Lovullo remains focused on supporting his players and finding ways to push forward despite the challenges they face.
