Nick Ahmed returns to Chase Field with Padres for final series of 2024

This weekend at Chase Field, when the Arizona Diamondbacks face off against the San Diego Padres in the final series of the 2024 season, fans will recognize a familiar face in a different uniform. Former D-backs shortstop Nick Ahmed has been called up by the Padres as they prepare for a postseason run.

Since September 5th of last year, Ahmed has been a part of four different National League West teams. On September 1st, just before the postseason eligibility deadline, the veteran signed a minor league deal with San Diego, leaving the Colorado Rockies as the only NL West team he has yet to play for.

Ahmed, released by the Diamondbacks less than a year ago, was a staple in Arizona’s infield for a decade, earning two Gold Gloves during his time there. However, the emergence of younger players like Geraldo Perdomo at shortstop reduced his role, ultimately leading to his departure.

Ahead of the 2024 season, Ahmed joined the San Francisco Giants, but his stint ended with his release on July 7th. Despite being eligible for a National League Championship ring from his time with Arizona, Ahmed declined the honor when the Giants visited Arizona later in the year.

Shortly after his release, Ahmed signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. In just his second game with them, he delivered a memorable go-ahead two-run homer against his former Giants team. Unfortunately, that highlight was one of the few bright spots during his tenure with L.A., as he struggled at the plate, hitting just 11-for-48 without any additional RBIs.

Though Ahmed won’t be a regular starter for the Padres, who have Xander Bogaerts at shortstop and Luis Arraez at second base, he joins a group of veteran backups including Tyler Wade, Elias Diaz, and David Peralta. Interestingly, despite a long career, Ahmed has yet to appear in a postseason game. He missed the 2017 playoffs due to a wrist injury and was released just before the D-backs’ 2023 World Series run.

Now, Ahmed could be in a position to deal a final blow to his former club. The Padres have the potential to knock the Diamondbacks out of the postseason race if they sweep the series. While the Mets-Braves series will also factor into Arizona’s fate, a Padres sweep could leave the D-backs’ playoff hopes hanging by a thread.

First pitch for Friday’s series opener between the Diamondbacks and Padres is scheduled for 6:40 PM.