In the midst of a busy trade night before the deadline, the state of Arizona stood still when Christian Walker abruptly exited Monday night’s game. Speculation quickly spread across social media, suggesting that Walker might be the next bat to be traded. However, the reality was different.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Walker left the game not because of a trade, but due to oblique tightness. He has since been placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained oblique, which is less severe than initially feared. Postgame, manager Torey Lovullo described the concern for Walker as “not minimal.”
To cover for Walker’s absence, the Diamondbacks acquired first baseman Josh Bell from the Miami Marlins. In a corresponding roster move, Arizona recalled Pavin Smith from Triple-A Reno.
Today's #Dbacks roster moves. pic.twitter.com/cQzLfQecYE
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) July 30, 2024
This will be Smith’s second stint with the Diamondbacks this season, as he has frequently moved between Reno and the majors over the years. Smith has posted a .297 batting average across 49 games in Reno this season, and he has batted .268 in 27 games with the Diamondbacks.
According to John Gambadoro at AZSports, utility man Kevin Newman will start at first base against the Nationals on Tuesday, while the team awaits Bell’s arrival in Arizona. Newman has played first base on two occasions this season, including on Monday. During his time with the Pirates in 2023, the former first-round pick from the University of Arizona also saw significant time at the position.
The Diamondbacks are aiming for their sixth win in seven games, building on the momentum from Monday’s thrilling comeback victory, which ended with a walk-off home run by Corbin Carroll. A win, coupled with a Padres loss to the Dodgers, would give Arizona a Wild Card spot for the first time this season.
First pitch is at 6:40 p.m., with Ryne Nelson on the mound for the Diamondbacks, and former Diamondback Patrick Corbin starting for Washington.
