The Arizona Diamondbacks are facing a season-opening challenge that could reshape their lineup and rotation. But here's where it gets controversial: With catcher/first baseman Adrian Del Castillo sidelined by a left calf injury, the team’s depth is being tested early. Manager Torey Lovullo confirmed that Del Castillo, 26, will miss most of Spring Training, making it unlikely he’ll avoid the injured list to start the season. This is a significant blow, as Del Castillo—despite being third on the catching depth chart behind Gabriel Moreno and James McCann—was a strong candidate for a bench role if healthy. His versatility at first base and as a designated hitter, coupled with Arizona’s thin position player depth, made him a valuable asset. And this is the part most people miss: Del Castillo’s absence could force the D-Backs to rely more heavily on unproven players like Tyler Locklear, who is also starting the season on the IL due to elbow and shoulder surgeries.
Del Castillo’s struggles last season—a .242/.290/.392 slash line with a near-36% strikeout rate—raise questions about his long-term role. While his minor league numbers are impressive, his defensive limitations as a catcher and high swing-and-miss rate put pressure on his bat. If he’s primarily a first baseman or DH, he’ll need to produce more consistently. Is Del Castillo’s potential worth the wait, or should the D-Backs look elsewhere for offensive firepower?
Meanwhile, the first base and DH spots are projected to be a platoon between Pavin Smith and Carlos Santana, with Ketel Marte also logging time at DH. The D-Backs are reportedly scouting the trade market for a utility player with more offensive punch than current options like Tim Tawa, Ildemaro Vargas, and Jacob Amaya. This move could be crucial, especially if star right fielder Corbin Carroll starts the season on the IL following hamate surgery. Carroll’s absence would leave a massive hole in the lineup, though the team hopes he’ll return by Opening Day.
Outfielder Alek Thomas is preparing to fill in where needed, primarily in left and center field. Thomas, a versatile defender with over 3,000 innings in center field, could be a stopgap in left until Lourdes Gurriel Jr. returns from his ACL injury. But here’s the question: With Jordan Lawlar being groomed for center field and boasting a higher offensive ceiling, is Thomas better suited for a fourth outfield role once everyone’s healthy? Or does his reliability make him a starter in the meantime?
The D-Backs’ lineup is undeniably top-heavy, with Carroll, Marte, Moreno, and Geraldo Perdomo forming a formidable core. Nolan Arenado, though past his prime, remains a solid everyday third baseman. However, the bottom third of the lineup and the bench lack established contributors, creating opportunities for players to step up—or for the team to address weaknesses via trade.
On the pitching side, the rotation is slightly less uncertain but still competitive. Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen are locked in, with Kelly named the Opening Day starter. Ryne Nelson is expected to secure a mid-rotation spot, but the final two spots are up for grabs among Eduardo Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt, and Michael Soroka. Here’s where it gets interesting: Rodriguez and Soroka are MLB roster locks, but Pfaadt could start in Triple-A due to his minor league options. 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. Should Lovullo prioritize experience or give Pfaadt a chance to prove himself in the majors?
As Spring Training unfolds, these battles will be worth watching. The D-Backs’ ability to navigate these challenges could define their season. What do you think? Are the D-Backs making the right moves, or are they overlooking key areas? Let us know in the comments!
