The Arizona Diamondbacks are coping with a difficult challenge as catcher Gabriel Moreno’s recovery timeline extends longer than expected. Moreno has been placed on the 60-day injured list due to a fractured index finger on his right throwing hand, delaying his return until at least August 15.
Details on Moreno’s Injury and Its Effects on the Team
Moreno was initially sidelined on June 19, with the injury retroactive to June 16. This latest setback adds to a series of health issues the young catcher has faced over recent seasons. In the current year alone, he missed significant time because of a sore shoulder, leading to a stint on the injured list from mid-July to mid-August. Last season, he also endured two injury-related absences: one lasting due to a thumb issue and another for a groin injury, which kept him out for 40 days.
Since joining the Diamondbacks, Moreno has appeared in only 222 of 446 possible games, reflecting roughly a 50% participation rate. His absence weighs heavily on the team because he won a Gold Glove in 2023 and consistently contributes offensively, maintaining a career batting average of .278 and a .740 OPS. Before this latest injury, he was showing early signs of increased power at the plate, emphasizing how his extended time away affects Arizona’s lineup strength.
How the Injury Happened and Ongoing Recovery Efforts
The injury occurred during a rain-affected game on June 6, when a ball bounced unpredictably off wet dirt and hit Moreno’s unprotected hand. Initial medical scans, including X-rays and an MRI, revealed no serious damage. Moreno even returned briefly and managed to hit a home run after the incident. However, his symptoms worsened, leading to a second MRI that detected a hairline fracture.
Manager Torey Lovullo disclosed that Moreno is scheduled for a CT scan soon, which will help determine if the fracture has healed enough for him to resume baseball activities. Though Moreno is progressing, Lovullo emphasized a cautious approach, prioritizing the catcher’s full recovery over rushing him back.
“I would have never put him in the lineup if that was the case.”
— Torey Lovullo, Arizona Diamondbacks Manager
Adjustments in Catching Roles Amid Moreno’s Absence
While Moreno remains sidelined, the Diamondbacks have adjusted their catching setup. Veteran James McCann was added to the roster and is sharing catching responsibilities with Jose Herrera. Notably, McCann has started taking ground balls at first base, which could provide the team with greater lineup flexibility by allowing him to start at first base against left-handed pitchers.
Adrian Del Castillo has primarily served as the designated hitter but is available to catch when necessary. Lovullo stressed the value of having a third catcher ready, especially to manage pinch-hitting situations that can leave the team short-handed defensively.
Implications for the Diamondbacks’ Season Moving Forward
Gabriel Moreno remains the Diamondbacks’ most skilled catcher, and his continued absence places added pressure on the team, which is striving to stay competitive in the league. With his return pushed to mid-August at the earliest, Arizona faces significant challenges balancing health and performance, while hoping Moreno can regain full strength and contribute meaningfully down the stretch.