Diamondbacks reinstate Alek Thomas from 7-day IL, set to join Reno Aces

The Arizona Diamondbacks reinstated outfielder Alek Thomas, their 2018 second-round draft pick and 2023 NLCS hero, from the injured list on Monday. Thomas will return to action with the Reno Aces in Triple-A as he works his way back to form.

Thomas has been battling a series of injuries this season, including a hamstring strain that sidelined him through all of April, May, and June, followed by an oblique injury in August. These setbacks have prevented the 24-year-old from finding his footing in the majors. He was last optioned to Triple-A on August 13 after his MLB batting average dipped to .191.

With the emergence of Jake McCarthy and the recent hot streak of Pavin Smith, Thomas’ chances of making Arizona’s postseason roster appear slim. However, that speaks volumes about the Diamondbacks’ outfield depth, as Thomas is no stranger to high-pressure moments. His pinch-hit, two-run home run in Game 4 of last year’s NLCS was pivotal in securing Arizona’s trip to the World Series.

Before landing on the IL with his hamstring injury in mid-August, Thomas had shown promise in Triple-A. In the three games following his option, he recorded at least one hit in each contest, including a two-run homer.

In addition to reinstating Thomas, the Diamondbacks announced the release of catcher Andrew Knizner. Knizner, who began the season with the Texas Rangers, signed a minor league deal with Reno over a month ago to provide depth while Gabriel Moreno was on the IL.