PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks are making changes to their pitching staff ahead of their series finale against the Cincinnati Reds.
Hearing that @Dbacks RHP Michael Soroka is headed to IL with right shoulder inflammation. Carillo will be recalled.
— Steve Gilbert (@SteveGilbertMLB) August 23, 2026
Arizona designated right-hander Zack Littell for assignment and recalled right-hander Drey Jameson in his place. MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert reports right-hander Michael Soroka is headed to the injured list with right shoulder inflammation and will be replaced by Gerardo Carrillo. The moves come at a critical point for the D-backs as they continue to fight for a playoff spot.
The changes come after a rough night Saturday against the Reds, who defeated the Snakes 11-5. JJ Bleday hit for the cycle and Elly De La Cruz collected four hits. Soroka allowed six runs in 3.1 innings, while Littell surrendered four more runs in relief.
Aug 22, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Michael Soroka (34) throws against the Cincinnati Reds in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Anna Carrington-Imagn Images
It was a stark contrast to Friday night, when the Diamondbacks routed the Reds 9-0 behind a strong performance from Eduardo Rodriguez and a career-best game from Jordan Lawlar. Lawlar had three hits, including a two-run homer, and three RBIs.
The contrast between the two games showcases the challenge facing Arizona. The playoff race has only gotten tighter, with the club entering Sunday’s finale against Cincinnati two games behind the final wild-card spot.
Aug 17, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Littell (46) looks on as Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras (40) hits a home run in the fifth inning at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Soroka’s injury is particularly notable after he returned from the injured list earlier this month and had established himself as an anchor in the rotation before suffering another injury. The D-Backs are still without Zac Gallen and Ryne Nelson, while Corbin Burnes isn’t expected back until September.
That leaves Arizona with little time to find answers. With the postseason race tightening and injuries continuing to hit the club, the Diamondbacks will need their pitching staff to stabilize quickly during the most important stretch of the year.
Aug 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Littell throws in the sixth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
