The Arizona Diamondbacks are facing a season-opening challenge that could reshape their lineup and rotation. But here's where it gets controversial: Is the team doing enough to address their depth issues, or are they risking a shaky start to the season? Let’s dive in.
The D-Backs are likely to start the year without catcher and first baseman Adrian Del Castillo, who’s sidelined with a left calf injury. Manager Torey Lovullo confirmed on Monday that the 26-year-old will miss most of Spring Training, making it unlikely he’ll be ready for Opening Day. And this is the part most people miss: While Del Castillo isn’t a starter—he’s third on the catching depth chart behind Gabriel Moreno and James McCann—he was a strong candidate for a bench role if healthy. His absence leaves a gap, especially with Tyler Locklear already on the Injured List (IL) recovering from elbow and shoulder surgeries. Del Castillo’s versatility at first base and as a designated hitter (DH) could have been a valuable asset, but now the team is left scrambling to fill bench spots on a thin 40-man roster.
Del Castillo’s 2023 season was a mixed bag. After an impressive 25-game debut two years ago, he struggled last season, striking out 47 times in 131 plate appearances (a staggering 36% rate) while hitting just .242/.290/.392 over 44 games. His minor league numbers have been strong, but his high strikeout rate raises questions about his MLB readiness. Here’s the kicker: As a below-average defensive catcher, Del Castillo’s bat needs to carry him, but his performance so far hasn’t inspired confidence. If he’s primarily a first baseman or DH, the pressure on his bat only intensifies.
Speaking of first base, Pavin Smith and Carlos Santana are expected to platoon there, with both also logging time at DH. Ketel Marte will also see action at DH, though his primary position remains second base. But here’s the twist: The D-Backs are reportedly scouting the trade market for a utility player after dealing Blaze Alexander to Baltimore for reliever Kade Strowd and two minor leaguers. They’re looking for someone with more offensive firepower than Tim Tawa or non-roster invitees Ildemaro Vargas and Jacob Amaya. The question is, will they find the right piece in time?
The bottom of the lineup could be even more concerning if star right fielder Corbin Carroll starts the season on the IL. Carroll, who underwent hamate surgery last week, will miss most of Spring Training, though the team hopes he’ll return by Opening Day. Outfielder Alek Thomas, who’s been working in left and center field, expects Carroll to be back in his usual spot. Thomas, a versatile defender with experience in all three outfield positions, could fill in as a stopgap left fielder until Lourdes Gurriel Jr. returns from his ACL injury or prospect Ryan Waldschmidt is called up.
Here’s where opinions might clash: While Carroll, Marte, Moreno, and Geraldo Perdomo form a formidable top half of the lineup, the bottom third and bench are far less reliable. Nolan Arenado, though past his prime, should still be a solid everyday third baseman, but the rest of the lineup lacks consistency. Is this a recipe for success, or a weakness opponents will exploit?
On the pitching side, the rotation is slightly more settled. Free agent returnees Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen are locks, with Kelly named the Opening Day starter. Ryne Nelson is expected to secure a mid-rotation spot, but beyond that, it’s anyone’s guess. Eduardo Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt, and Michael Soroka are competing for the remaining two spots. Here’s the catch: Rodriguez and Soroka are guaranteed MLB roster spots, but Pfaadt, with two minor league options, could start the season in Triple-A. Soroka’s experience in a swing role makes him a strong candidate for long relief if the D-Backs opt for a six-man pitching staff. One injury could force Lovullo’s hand, but for now, it’s a battle worth watching.
So, what do you think? Are the D-Backs doing enough to address their depth issues, or are they setting themselves up for a rocky start? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
