Diamondbacks Fans Weigh In: Key Players Set to Return

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - APRIL 30: James McCann #8 of the Arizona Diamondbacks pitches in the eighth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field on April 30, 2026. (Photo by John Fisher/Getty Images) | Getty Images

As part of SB Nation Reacts, we gather insights from dedicated fans of the Arizona Diamondbacks and the wider MLB community. This season has seen the team plagued with injuries, but recent developments suggest a shift as players are on the verge of returning to action. This week’s survey focuses on one player who has already made his comeback and three others who are slated to return soon, inviting fans to weigh in on who might make the biggest impact.

First up is Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who rejoined the team on June 15. Gurriel made his presence known with a crucial RBI during a 4-3 victory over the Angels. He previously missed 21 games due to a left hamstring strain and had already sat out the first 20 games of the season while recovering from ACL surgery on his other leg. While his performance has been subpar—with a .563 OPS and a bWAR of -0.4—he will need to elevate his game to secure his $14 million option for next season.

Next is James McCann, who has been sidelined since May 19 with a right quadriceps strain. Manager Torey Lovullo announced that McCann is set to start playing in the Arizona Complex League next week. His return is particularly important given the struggles of his replacements, Aramis Garcia and Adrian Del Castillo, who have posted disappointing OPS figures. McCann’s expertise in calling games and collaborating with pitchers will be invaluable as the team pushes for improvement.

Justin Martinez, a promising pitcher, has also been on the radar. Initially expected to be the last of the returning trio, he now seems poised to come back ahead of A.J. Puk and Corbin Burnes. Lovullo noted on May 10 that Martinez has begun throwing bullpens and is already reaching speeds of 99 mph. If he can return in August, his addition could bolster the bullpen as the Diamondbacks aim for a strong second-half performance.

Lastly, there’s Carlos Santana, who may offer some support at first base, an area where the Diamondbacks have struggled significantly this season. With a meager OPS of .569, the team’s performance at this position has been historically low since 1920. If Santana can return to the form he showed last year, even a modest improvement would benefit the team immensely.

Which of these players do you think will have the most significant impact upon their return? Participate in our poll and share your thoughts in the comments!