PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks are expected to get reinforcements in their starting rotation during their next road trip, and the return of a former National League Cy Young Award winner.
I expect Corbin Burnes to make his return to the Diamondbacks rotation on Tuesday in Kansas City.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) September 4, 2026
Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro expects right-hander Corbin Burnes to join the rotation and make his first start of 2026 against the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday. The return would mark the end of a long recovery from Tommy John surgery that has kept him out of action since June 1, 2025.
The right-hander was previously slated to return to the rotation earlier this season, but a right teres major (shoulder) strain delayed his expected mid-summer return. Now, it appears Burnes is finally ready to rejoin the team at a critical point in Arizona’s season as the Diamondbacks continue to fight for a spot in the postseason.
Arizona Diamondbacks Corbin Burnes (39) pitches against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Chase Field in Phoenix, on May 27, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Burnes signed with the D-Backs on a six-year, $210 million contract ahead of the 2025 season. Along with Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen, the right-hander was expected to bolster Arizona’s rotation with his elite pitching after spending 2024 with the Baltimore Orioles.
Before his injury, Burnes posted a 2.66 ERA and 1.17 WHIP in 11 starts with the Snakes.
Now, the Diamondbacks will hope Burnes can return in that same form as they battle for the final wild-card spot. As of Thursday, Sept. 3, Arizona is just a half-game ahead of the San Diego Padres. The club’s next challenges will come against a hot Houston Astros team and an unpredictable Royals club, leaving little margin for error.
May 16, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Corbin Burnes (39) throws in the third inning against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
It’s reasonable to expect Burnes may not be at his best in his first start back. After more than a year away from the mound, there will likely be some rust as he works his way back into a regular routine. Still, if he can give the Diamondbacks enough innings and keep them within striking distance, that could be enough to make an impact.
Arizona’s starting rotation has gone through plenty of changes in recent weeks because of injuries, with players being recalled and rookies stepping into important roles. The return of a pitcher with Burnes’ experience and track record could provide some much-needed stability.
May 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Corbin Burnes (39) throws during the second inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Burnes’ first start back will not just be about his individual performance — it could be an early indication of whether he can give Arizona the boost it needs for the final stretch of the playoff race.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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