Arizona Diamondbacks Face Rotation Crisis as Injuries Mount During Critical Stretch
The Arizona Diamondbacks are navigating one of the most challenging periods of their season, forced to patch together a starting rotation after placing Michael Soroka on the injured list with shoulder inflammation. The move, made Sunday, leaves the club scrambling to cover multiple starts during a demanding stretch that includes an unusual four-game series against the San Francisco Giants.
Manager Torey Lovullo described the situation as fluid and challenging, acknowledging that several key pitchers are unavailable.
Several of our main participants are not able to go out and compete because they're hurt, and that's part of the game,Lovullo said.
Responsive and curious as to who will step up and get that opportunity and make the most of it. Because there are pitchers that will step into this arena and get that chance, and I want them to be as race-ready as they possibly can.
How Will the Diamondbacks Fill the Rotation Gaps?
The club optioned Mitch Bratt to Triple-A Reno on Monday after he lasted just three innings against the Reds. Normally, an optioned pitcher must stay in the Minors for 15 days, but MLB rules provide exceptions. One allows a player to return early if replacing an injured teammate, which is how Gerardo Carrillo was recalled Sunday. Another exception permits a 27th player for doubleheaders, a rule the Diamondbacks could exploit on Saturday when they face the Giants in a day-night twin bill.
Bratt could serve as that extra player, giving the club a viable option to cover one of the three open spots created by the scheduling quirk and injuries.
What Is the Timeline for Returning Starters?
The Diamondbacks hope Soroka misses only the minimum 15 days. However, the other group referenced by general manager Mike Hazen includes veterans Zac Gallen and Corbin Burnes. Burnes, recovering from Tommy John surgery, could rejoin the rotation during the Houston series. Gallen, sidelined with right elbow inflammation, and Soroka would be eligible to return in Kansas City.
Hazen emphasized the importance of depth, especially after failed attempts to acquire a starter at the Trade Deadline.
You never really have too much starting pitching, no matter where you are during the course of the season,Hazen said.
It's frustrating, but it's the way the game goes, it's what we know. It's kind of how you have to build and prepare yourself. I think that was part of the frustration of not getting a starting pitcher at the Deadline.
Why Depth Matters in a Long Season
The current predicament underscores a broader lesson in roster construction. Teams that appear deep can quickly find themselves exposed when injuries cluster. The Diamondbacks' reliance on younger pitchers like Bratt and Carrillo reflects a strategic gamble on development, but it also highlights the fragility of even the best-laid plans.
With a home series against the Phillies followed by road trips to Houston and Kansas City, the club faces a grueling schedule. The ability to adapt, as Lovullo noted, will determine whether Arizona can weather this storm without losing ground in the standings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is replacing Michael Soroka in the rotation?
The Diamondbacks have not named a permanent replacement. They are using a mix of minor league call-ups and the 27th-man rule for the doubleheader to cover the gap.
When will Zac Gallen and Corbin Burnes return?
Burnes could return during the Houston series, while Gallen and Soroka are eligible to come back in Kansas City, assuming no setbacks.
Can Mitch Bratt be recalled before 15 days?
Yes, under MLB rules, a player can be recalled early if replacing an injured player or as the 27th man for a doubleheader.