Diamondbacks' Pitching Nightmare Continues as Key Arms Sidelined

The Arizona Diamondbacks, already battling through a challenging season, have been dealt another significant blow to their pitching staff. Starting pitcher Anthony DeSclafani, a promising acquisition, has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a right elbow strain. This news comes just as the team hoped he was nearing a return, casting a dark cloud over their rotation depth.

DeSclafani's journey with the D-backs has been plagued by misfortune since his arrival. Acquired from the Seattle Mariners as part of the blockbuster Lourdes Gurriel Jr. trade, he initially suffered a minor elbow flexor strain during spring training, forcing him onto the 60-day injured list. The recent setback occurred during his very first rehab start with Single-A Visalia. The diagnosis of an elbow strain means his return is now pushed back considerably, likely not until August or even September, if at all this season. This extended absence is a tough pill to swallow for a team looking for stability on the mound.

Adding to the team's woes, veteran right-hander Merrill Kelly's road to recovery has hit another bump. Kelly, who was placed on the 60-day injured list on April 24 with forearm soreness, has experienced renewed discomfort. While initial evaluations showed no structural damage to his forearm, his throwing program has been halted due to this persistent soreness. This effectively erases any immediate timeline for his return, leaving the D-backs in an uncertain position regarding one of their most reliable arms.

These significant injuries leave the Diamondbacks' starting rotation significantly depleted. While Zac Gallen, Jordan Montgomery, and Brandon Pfaadt hold down three spots, the depth behind them is now severely tested. Ryne Nelson and Slade Cecconi are currently shouldering much of the responsibility for the remaining rotation slots. The continuous struggle with injuries, particularly to key pitchers, highlights a critical challenge for the Diamondbacks as they strive to navigate the grueling MLB season.

The front office and coaching staff face a daunting task: finding reliable arms to fill these voids and keep the team competitive. The resilience of the remaining pitching staff will be paramount as the D-backs look to overcome these substantial setbacks and push forward.