Diamondbacks Demote Player After Waiver Claim From Blue Jays

Mark J&period; Rebilas-Imagn Images

Diamondbacks Demote Player After Waiver Claim From Blue Jays

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Sep 15, 2026 9:25 AM ET

The Arizona Diamondbacks have made another roster change as they continue their push for a National League playoff spot. Arizona claimed outfielder Jesús Sánchez off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays and optioned infielder José Fernández to Triple-A Reno.

John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 reported the move on X.

Fernández had only just returned to the major league roster Sunday after the Diamondbacks designated veteran outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. for assignment. His latest stint lasted less than 48 hours before Arizona sent him back to Reno.

It is Tommy Troy that is being optioned to make room for Jesus Sanchez. https://t.co/W7tZuPRdpZ
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) September 15, 2026

Sánchez gives the Diamondbacks another experienced option in the outfield. He hit .260 with eight home runs and 35 RBI in 99 games for Toronto this season.

The 28-year-old was designated for assignment by the Blue Jays before Arizona claimed him off waivers. He will now join a Diamondbacks team trying to stay alive in the crowded NL Wild Card race.

Arizona entered Tuesday with an 80-71 record and sat 2.5 games behind the Padres for the final NL Wild Card spot. The Diamondbacks are also coming off a busy stretch of roster decisions.

Gurriel was designated for assignment Sunday after struggling through injuries and hitting .210 with two home runs in 51 games this season. Fernández was recalled to fill that roster spot before Sánchez’s arrival created another opening.

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo (17)Anna Carrington-Imagn Images

The Diamondbacks have also recently welcomed starting pitchers Corbin Burnes and Zac Gallen back from the 60-day injured list, strengthening their rotation for the final weeks.

Now Sánchez gets an opportunity to help Arizona’s offense during an important stretch. The Diamondbacks will host the Miami Marlins for three games before finishing their home schedule against the New York Yankees.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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