As they prepare for their final series of the season against the San Diego Padres at Chase Field this weekend, the Arizona Diamondbacks have recalled outfielder Alek Thomas from Triple-A Reno.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Thomas, a 2023 NLCS hero best remembered for his game-tying home run in Game 3, has struggled offensively this season. Injuries have also limited his availability, as he has appeared in just 37 games for the Diamondbacks. The 23-year-old spent most of the year in Reno, where he worked to regain his form at the plate.
In addition to Thomas, the Diamondbacks also activated pitcher Ryne Nelson from the 15-day injured list. Nelson last pitched on September 8th against the Houston Astros before being sidelined. During his absence, Jordan Montgomery was moved to the rotation after a season marked by inconsistencies as a starter. Montgomery initially impressed with a shutout relief appearance against the Texas Rangers but struggled in two subsequent starts, allowing three earned runs in 4.2 innings against the Colorado Rockies and another three in 4.1 innings against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Diamondbacks lost both games.
To make room for Thomas and Nelson on the roster, Arizona optioned pitchers Yilber Diaz and Blake Walston. Diaz, who made three appearances out of the bullpen during this recent stint, allowed three earned runs over 8.1 innings. Walston struggled, surrendering eight earned runs across 5.2 innings.
Although the NL West has already been clinched by the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Padres still have something at stake this weekend as they need to avoid a sweep to secure the top Wild Card spot. The series opener is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. on Friday.
