Gabriel Moreno’s Injury and the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Playoff Hopes
Gabriel Moreno is a crucial player for the Arizona Diamondbacks, integral to their chances of returning to the postseason. So, when the 24-year-old Gold Glove catcher went on the injured list on June 22nd with a sprained left thumb, it was a significant blow for a team already struggling with numerous injuries.
Fortunately, Moreno’s injury does not appear to be severe. Manager Torey Lovullo told the media today that Moreno has been progressing well, having hit off a tee and played catch on Wednesday. He is set to catch Zac Gallen’s bullpen session on Thursday at Salt River Fields. Gallen, who is also rehabbing from a hamstring strain, might be ready to return by Saturday.
Moreno is scheduled to catch in an Arizona Complex League game on Saturday, possibly catching Miguel Castro, who is also rehabbing from an injury. Assuming all goes well and there are no lingering effects from the injury, Lovullo said, “we are looking to get him back on the 11th day, we feel really good about that.”
Counting forward from June 22nd, July 1st is the 10th day and July 2nd, the start of a crucial series in Los Angeles against the Dodgers, is the 11th day.
Moreno’s performance at the plate this season has been underwhelming, with a batting line of .230/.313/.346 and a .659 OPS, translating to an 89 OPS+, which is about 11% below the league average. However, his defensive contributions have been significant, with +6 defensive runs saved according to Baseball Reference. He has also thrown out 35% of base stealers, compared to the league average of 21%.
In Moreno’s absence, Tucker Barnhart has been getting most of the playing time, while Jose Herrera was called up to replace Moreno and has made one start. Barnhart started Wednesday night’s game against the Twins, and Herrera is expected to start the day game on Thursday in the series finale.
