Diamondbacks navigate injury list as series against Mariners begins
Arizona faces Seattle at T-Mobile Park amid roster constraints, with key pitchers and position players managing recovery timelines.
The Arizona Diamondbacks commence a three-game series against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on Friday, May 29, navigating a roster significantly impacted by injury. Third baseman Nolan Arenado was absent from the lineup for the second consecutive game due to right groin tightness, though he is expected to return for Saturday’s match. Manager Torey Lovullo indicated that Arenado received treatment on the team’s off day and is anticipated to be available off the bench on Friday before rejoining the starting lineup.
On the mound, right-hander Corbin Burnes advanced his recovery from elbow surgery by throwing 20 pitches in a live batting practice session. This marked his first time facing hitters since undergoing the procedure last year, with Lovullo confirming that Burnes is targeting a July return from the injured list. The pitcher is expected to face live hitters again on Tuesday as he continues his rehabilitation protocol.
Other Diamondbacks players are also progressing through rehab assignments. Outfielder Jordan Lawlar, recovering from a wrist fracture, participated in the session and is expected to move to a game in the Arizona Complex League on Saturday. First baseman Pavin Smith shifted his assignment to Triple-A Reno, where he served as designated hitter, though he sat out a planned appearance due to illness. Left-hander A.J. Puk, also returning from elbow surgery, threw a scoreless inning in his second complex league appearance on Wednesday.
The Mariners, currently leading the American League West with a 28-29 record, are managing their own injury concerns. Key players Cal Raleigh and Brendan Donovan are on the injured list with oblique and groin issues respectively. Raleigh’s production has dipped significantly this season compared to his previous year, while Donovan, a major offseason acquisition, has struggled to stay healthy since a strong start.
Pitching matchups for the series feature Zac Gallen for Arizona against George Kirby for Seattle on Friday. Gallen, coming off a win against the Rockies, will look to improve his command against the Mariners, while Kirby, who dominated Diamondbacks hitters in a 2024 start, brings a high-velocity fastball to the mound. The series continues on Saturday with Ryne Nelson facing Bryan Woo, and concludes on Sunday with Merrill Kelly taking on Bryce Miller.
