BOLD START: Gurriel’s push for Opening Day could reshape the D-backs’ season—and yes, it’s stirring debate already.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — When Lourdes Gurriel Jr. underwent ACL surgery on his right knee last September, the expectation was that he’d be out for about two months into the 2026 season. This spring, though, Gurriel’s rehab is ahead of that timeline, and his first message to manager Torey Lovullo was a clear plan: he intends to be ready for Opening Day.
Lovullo isn’t fully convinced that’s realistic, but it’s hard to ignore the signs that Gurriel is progressing faster than anticipated. The club will, as always, proceed with caution to avoid a setback.
“I know what he’s saying, and I love that kind of drive,” Lovullo said. “But we’ve got to be really careful with Lourdes. We don’t want him to return too soon and suffer a flare-up or lingering inflammation, which would set him back as he tries to get back on track.”
The hopeful signs aren’t just talk. Gurriel has started swinging the bat and running the bases, both positive indicators in his road to recovery.
“I prepared really well and had a solid offseason,” Gurriel said. “I’ll leave the decision about my return in the hands of the medical team.”
Speaking of injuries
Adrian Del Castillo’s left calf issue is likely to keep him sidelined until late spring, effectively ruling him out of Opening Day. Del Castillo, who is primarily a catcher, was in the mix for a spot on the roster and could have seen time as the designated hitter—at least initially, the Diamondbacks will look elsewhere for that role.
The team plans to use the DH spot to give fielding players a break while keeping their bat in the lineup. That could mean Ketel Marte spending time there at times.
Other candidates for the DH role include Pavin Smith, who will share first base duties with newly signed veteran Carlos Santana, who could also see time at first. Nolan Arenado might get some at-bats there too, and the club could deploy the role to help ease Gurriel back when he’s ready.
“I could be a little creative there,” Lovullo said. “We’ll look for players to emerge.”
Measuring up
The Diamondbacks joined the ABS Challenge System rollout this year, with height measurements for position players and pitcher Ryne Nelson designated as emergency pinch-hitter if needed. Nelson already proved his pinch-hitting value in a March 30 game against the Cubs last year, driving in a run during an eight-run eighth inning that completed a comeback win.
“Nelson did a great job last year. He definitely saved us,” Lovullo added.
