Diamondbacks Add Gabriel Moreno to Injured List
The Arizona Diamondbacks have officially placed catcher Gabriel Moreno on the injured list. This decision follows an evaluation by the team’s management regarding a muscular issue in Moreno’s back, as reported by MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert. Team manager Torey Lovullo indicated that the injury isn’t expected to keep Moreno sidelined for an extended period.
Injury Details for Gabriel Moreno
Moreno’s condition became a concern after he exited a recent game against the Philadelphia Phillies in just the second inning. Initially deemed day-to-day due to lower back tightness, Moreno underwent an MRI. While it was perceived as a precautionary measure, the results led to the determination that he would need a minimum of 10 days off.
Moreno’s Role and Performance
At 26 years old, Gabriel Moreno has been a pivotal player for the Diamondbacks since joining the team in December 2022 from the Blue Jays. The trade involved sending strong defender Daulton Varsho to Toronto. Moreno has quickly established himself as an excellent defender, accumulating 32 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) from 2023 to 2026, including 20 DRS in the current season. His defensive capabilities also rank impressively in Statcast metrics: he was in the 61st percentile for caught stealing and 80th percentile or better for blocking, pop time, and framing.
Offensively, Moreno has consistently performed well, recording a wRC+ of 102 or higher since 2023, and currently boasts a 107 wRC+ in 45 plate appearances this season.
Next Steps for the Diamondbacks
In Moreno’s absence, catchers James McCann and Adrian Del Castillo will take on additional responsibilities. McCann, a seasoned player with 13 years in the major leagues, performed 10% better than average offensively last year according to wRC+. However, he has experienced challenges in the early part of this season, striking out six times over 18 plate appearances.
Adrian Del Castillo, who is 26 years old, has a career wRC+ of 106 over 230 plate appearances from 2024 to 2026, primarily demonstrating his ability in a limited capacity in 2024. Both catchers are adequate defensively and provide the team with contrasting batting styles, with Del Castillo being a left-handed batter.
Possible Catching Strategy
- McCann may be utilized against left-handed pitchers, leveraging his performance advantage from last season.
- The Diamondbacks could employ a platoon system between McCann and Del Castillo until Moreno’s return.
The team remains optimistic about Moreno’s recovery and expects him to return sooner rather than later.
