Before the series opener against the Philadelphia Phillies, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo gave updates to the media on the status of his injured players. Lovullo told reporters, including Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports, that catcher Gabriel Moreno is getting a second opinion on his injured groin and while optimistic about a potential return before the end of the regular season, said he’ll be out for weeks.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Moreno suffered the injury on Monday against the Guardians legging out an infield hit. The Diamondbacks have added more catching depth to their organization with the waiver claim of Andrew Knizner. Knizner will report to Triple-A Reno, but would likely be the first call-up if anything were to happen to José Herrera or Adrian Del Castillo.
Here’s more injury updates from Lovullo:
Nick Piecoro of The Arizona Republic reports Merrill Kelly (right shoulder) will throw a bullpen on Friday, potentially lining him up to start Sunday against the Phillies if it goes well. Due to Tuesday’s rainout forcing a doubleheader on Wednesday, Arizona does not have a starting pitcher who can make that start. Kelly threw 62 pitches in four-plus innings with High-A Hillsboro on Tuesday, so he should be stretched out enough to go up to 70-75 pitches next time out. It would mark his first start since April 15, making it nearly four months since he last threw a competitive pitch in the majors.
Weiner also reports Yilber DÃaz has developed a blister and has been placed on the 7-day injured list with Triple-A Reno. Arizona’s pitching depth has been stretched thin all season, both at the major league and Triple-A levels, even as some of their projected starters make it back from injury. They are still one injury away from a disaster scenario or having to reach into Double-A.
Diamondbacks starting catcher Gabriel Moreno leaves game vs. Guardians with left groin strain
Diamondbacks claim Andrew Knizner off waivers, designate Luis Frias for assignment
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Michael McDermott covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @MichaelMcDMLB
