Diamondbacks Adjust Roster Ahead of Matchup with Dodgers

PEACH SPRINGS, AZ - On December 21, 2019, tourists were seen climbing "Guano Point" at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon within the Hualapai Indian Reservation, a site named after the U.S. Guano Corp, which invested $3.5 million to build a tramway for guano extraction from a nearby bat cave. (Photo by Paul Rovere/Getty Images)

As the Diamondbacks prepare to face the Dodgers, notable roster changes have been announced. The lineup features Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman leading the charge for the Dodgers, while Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll represent the Diamondbacks.

The Diamondbacks have made significant moves, recalling left-handed pitcher Phillip Abner and right-handed pitcher Kade Strowd from Triple-A Reno. In contrast, Brandon Pfaadt has been optioned back to Reno following last night’s game, and Taylor Clarke has been placed on the family medical emergency list.

Pfaadt's departure from the active roster comes as a surprise, given he had recently signed a five-year, $45 million contract extension that extended his tenure with the team through 2031. However, after a series of disappointing performances, including a 5.94 ERA in his three starts this season, the decision to move him to the bullpen proved inevitable. Manager Torey Lovullo indicated the team intends to work on Pfaadt's development as a starter, given he hasn't pitched more than 40 pitches in a game in over a month.

The Diamondbacks currently face challenges with starting depth, especially since Corbin Burnes is not expected to return until September. With Mitch Bratt on the minor-league injured list, Thomas Hatch could be in line for a call-up, despite his limited innings pitched. Meanwhile, Clarke’s absence is a personal matter, and fans hope for his swift return, as he has been a valuable asset to the bullpen with a 1.73 ERA this season.