The Arizona Diamondbacks face a challenging juncture in their season as they deal with significant injuries to key players. With Jordan Montgomery sidelined for the year due to Tommy John surgery and Ketel Marte and AJ Puk on the injured list, the team suffered another setback when closer Justin Martinez was placed on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation. Despite a promising start to the season, Martinez's velocity dropped, raising concerns about his health. Manager Torey Lovullo remains optimistic about Martinez's recovery and the possibility of utilizing their capable bullpen in the meantime.

As the team looks to fill the closer role, Lovullo mentioned Shelby Miller, Kevin Ginkel, and Ryan Thompson as potential candidates. Miller, with a strong season thus far, boasts impressive stats, not allowing a run in 12.2 innings pitched. His ability to execute pitches at critical moments positions him as a strong candidate for high-leverage situations. Meanwhile, Ginkel's recent return from injury adds depth to the bullpen, as he previously saved five games last season. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the Diamondbacks navigate their bullpen strategy.

The Arizona Diamondbacks bolstered their bullpen by signing left-hander Jalen Beeks to a one-year, $1.25 million deal and promoting veteran righty Shelby Miller to the opening day roster. Beeks, 31, had a 4.50 ERA over 71 appearances last season split between the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, while Miller, 34, impressed in spring training with 11 strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings. Miller returns to the Diamondbacks after a challenging tenure from 2016 to 2018. The team placed Jordan Montgomery on the 60-day injured list due to a serious elbow injury, and catcher René Pinto has been designated for assignment.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are finalizing their Opening Day roster, making significant moves ahead of the season. Left-handed pitcher Jalen Beeks has signed a one-year deal, while right-handed pitcher Shelby Miller has been added to the major league roster. To accommodate Beeks, Jordan Montgomery has been placed on the 60-day injured list due to a sprained ulnar collateral ligament, necessitating Tommy John surgery. Catcher René Pinto was also designated for assignment. Manager Torey Lovullo confirmed that Bryce Jarvis has secured a spot on the team, returning from injury recovery. In preparation for the season opener, the Diamondbacks held a workout at Chase Field.

Corbin Burnes is expected to make his season debut against the New York Yankees, showcasing his readiness after a solid outing. Meanwhile, concerns regarding bullpen injuries were downplayed by GM Mike Hazen, who indicated a positive outlook for Kevin Ginkel and Kendall Graveman's recovery. Ryne Nelson will start in the bullpen, though his role may evolve. Lovullo reflected on his ongoing tenure with the team, appreciating the support he has received throughout his nine seasons as manager.

Jordan Montgomery faces a challenging road ahead, as he prepares for his second Tommy John surgery due to ongoing issues with his left elbow. The Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher revealed that his elbow didn't respond well during recovery, prompting further examinations that necessitated surgery. Montgomery, who previously underwent the procedure while with the Yankees, has had a tumultuous two years, marked by ups and downs including a strong postseason performance with the Texas Rangers and a subsequent difficult free agency period.

Joining the Diamondbacks on a one-year, $25 million contract, Montgomery struggled to find his footing, posting a 6.23 ERA in 2023. Despite the disappointing performance, he exercised his $22.5 million player option for the upcoming season. With Montgomery sidelined, the Diamondbacks will have to adjust their rotation, which includes Zac Gallen and the newly acquired Corbin Burnes. Montgomery’s career thus far has shown promise, yet his health issues continue to pose significant challenges for his future.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are making a pivotal decision in their pitching rotation, opting to award the final spot to Brandon Pfaadt over Jordan Montgomery. Montgomery, who struggled in the previous season and hasn't shown promise during spring training, will be relegated to a long relief role despite his high salary of $22.5 million. This decision reflects the team's ambition to improve after narrowly missing the postseason last year.

The D-backs' manager, Torey Lovullo, expressed the weight of last season's disappointments in the decision-making process. The team is actively engaging in trade discussions regarding Montgomery, asking potential suitors to absorb a significant portion of his salary. Lovullo remains optimistic about Montgomery's potential, believing that he is still finding his form after an injury setback. However, the management is prioritizing immediate performance over long-term considerations, recognizing the risks of having Montgomery start in a tight playoff race.