Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) during spring training workouts on Feb. 10, 2026, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Diamondbacks Give Worrying Injury News on Gabriel Moreno, Pavin Smith

Originally posted on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI
By Alex D'Agostino | Last updated Mar 13, 2026 8:37 PM ET

Arizona Diamondbacks' Gabriel Moreno and Pavin Smith are both dealing with forearm tightness according to manager Torey Lovullo (first reported by AZCentral's José Romero).

For Moreno, it's the right forearm. Smith's issue is to his left. Both players will sit out Friday night's game with the Kansas City Royals. Moreno will have an MRI — Smith will not.

Arizona Diamondbacks' Moreno, Smith Dealing with Injuries

Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Per MLB's Steve Gilbert, Moreno has been dealing with the forearm tightness for several days. Arizona's star catcher had reportedly thought he would be able to play on Friday night, but had to shut down those hopes.

Moreno has had a difficult injury stretch in recent seasons, struggling to maintain optimal health and remain on the field. He missed a large portion of 2025 with a hairline fracture in his hand.

Losing both a Gold Glove catcher and a top-order hitter for significant time would be a serious blow to an already somewhat thin group of hitters.

Smith's issue does not appear to be as serious if imaging is not required, although that is a development that may come with time. Diamondbacks On SI will continue to report on the injury status of both players.

This article first appeared on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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