Diamondbacks might have found solution for ninth inning 

The back of the Arizona Diamondbacks bullpen is in a state of flux.

Co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez are both on the injured list. Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reported that Puk has a flexor strain in his left elbow, necessitating that he be shut down for two to three weeks before being re-evaluated. Then the Diamondbacks announced that Martinez is on the IL due to right shoulder inflammation with Puk being transferred to the 60-day IL.

The Diamondbacks were faced with a close game late in their Thursday matchup with the Mets. Reliever Shelby Miller was called upon for the ninth inning, locking up the save in the Diamondbacks' 4-2 victory.

Miller had struggled since his All-Star season in 2015. He posted a 7.02 ERA and a 1.757 WHIP in his 202.2 innings between 2016 and 2022 as he battled injuries and ineffectiveness. After a surprisingly effective season with the Dodgers in 2023, Miller had an inconsistent showing with the Tigers last year, posting a 4.53 ERA, albeit with a 0.970 WHIP, in his 55.2 innings. He signed a minor league deal with the Diamondbacks at the beginning of spring training, earning his way to a role in the bullpen.

That deal has worked out beyond expectations thus far. Miller has allowed an unearned run on four hits and four walks over 13.2 innings, striking out 15 batters.

Miller's dominance comes at a fortunate time for the Diamondbacks. Reliever Kevin Ginkel, potentially the next in line for saves, recently returned from his own stint on the IL and has been shaky thus far. Miller has the hot hand in the desert, shutting down the opposition without issue. The Diamondbacks may have a current answer for their closer role in an unexpected place.