PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks are expected to make pitching changes ahead of their fourth game of the series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
May 12, 2026; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Pfaadt (32) throws during the eighth inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, the Diamondbacks will send right-handed reliever Brandon Pfaadt to Triple-A Reno and call up left-handed reliever Phillip Abner and right-handed reliever Kade Strowd.
Pfaadt hasn’t found his rhythm so far in 2026. After beginning the year in the starting rotation, the right-hander posted a 5.94 ERA. When Merrill Kelly returned, Pfaadt was moved to the bullpen as a long reliever. However, even in that role, he posted a 5.91 ERA.
Apr 30, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Phillip Abner (50) throws a pitch in the fifth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-Imagn Images
Beyond the results, manager Torey Lovullo said the team wanted more opportunities to stretch Pfaadt out so he could continue getting innings. Optioning him may have been the best way to ensure he would be able to do so while also giving him a chance to regain some consistency.
While these changes account for two roster moves, the D-Backs still need to make one corresponding move to create room for both Abner and Strowd. Gambadoro has not said what that move will be, but he did note that it will not involve sending anyone to the minors.
It won’t be someone going to the minors.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) June 4, 2026
The moves come as Arizona values production now rather than wait for it to develop during the season. The additions of Abner and Strowd provide the club with two fresh arms.
For Abner, the promotion represents an opportunity to give Arizona another left-handed option out of the bullpen. Strowd, meanwhile, brings additional depth from the right side and could be called upon in a variety of relief situations.
Feb 22, 2026; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Kade Strowd (24) delivers to the plate in the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
As for Pfaadt, the move is not necessarily a reflection of the organization’s long-term view of him. If he can rediscover the form that made him a key contributor in previous seasons, he could find himself back in the Diamondbacks bullpen sooner rather than later.
With Arizona battling to stay in the Wild Card standings, every roster move carries added significance.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Phoenix Mercury finally break through with win over Seattle Storm to start road trip
