Ahead of today's matchup with the Los Angeles Angels in Tempe, manager Torey Lovullo addressed the media to discuss some of the latest updates with regards to D-backs injuries and the pitching situation.
Health
Outfielder Alek Thomas, who has been sidelined with wrist inflammation, was back in the batting cages today, per Lovullo. Thomas has not hit since the second game of Spring Training, but Lovullo said he would potentially face some live velocity today.
Lovullo said infielder Jace Peterson, also dealing with wrist inflammation, is also expected to take swings in the batting cage. Both wrist injuries are progressing in the right direction, despite Thomas' injury being stretched out a little farther than expected.
First baseman Christian Walker, who suffered a scary-looking hit-by-pitch to the hand, but was diagnosed with a contusion with no breaks, is not hitting or throwing. He was seen taking ground balls yesterday.
"We want to make sure he’s asymptomatic before we put him out on the field, but everyone’s trending in a good spot," Lovullo said
Third baseman Eugenio Suárez has been dealing with left side tightness. There was concern for a potential oblique injury, but Lovullo said it was "just below the oblique," and that the veteran infielder is also headed in the right direction.
Lovullo confirmed that both Walker and Suárez were only a matter of days away from a potential return.
Long Reliever
With the battle for the fifth starting pitcher coming down to a handful of guys, including Tommy Henry, Ryne Nelson and Slade Cecconi, there is still a question of developing a long man.
Lovullo said there is "strong consideration for everything" with regards to the bullpen, one such idea being to convert one of the battling starters into a long man, but there was no solidified plan as to how that might pan out for the regular season.
Lovullo did say there were some arms he was "more comfortable" doing the conversion with than others, but would not name anyone specifically.
RHP Paul Sewald
The D-backs' veteran closer will get his first game action today. Lovullo praised Sewald's work ethic, and said that he was excited to see Sewald in his first outing of 2024.
"Just a quiet intensity about his workday, every time he takes the mound he's trying to make pitches and improve, he's done that in lives, starting with his bullpens..." Lovullo said.
Notably, the closer has begun throwing a changeup. A two-pitch arm in 2023, Sewald threw a lower 90s fastball and a sweeping slider. This Spring, he's added a third pitch to the mix to help diversify his arsenal.
Lovullo emphasized the importance of having a veteran who can help set the tone for a clubhouse. Sewald's value to the D-backs was enormous, especially with regards to closing games, but he also provides leadership to the young club.
"I can't tell you how grateful I am that he's come here and solidified that ninth inning for us. The things that the fans, and the common person doesn't understand is just what he means when he walks into the clubhouse, that veteran, calming presence, the ability to be a leader and teach when he's supposed to. Be accountable, hold others accountable, he’s the complete package and where very thankful for having him." Lovullo said.
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