And, so: it begins…
Roster moves (from yesterday)
The Arizona Diamondbacks made the following roster moves. The D-backs’ 40-man roster is at 38.
- Recalled from Triple-A Reno: OF Alek Thomas
- Reinstated from 15-day injured list: RHP Ryne Nelson (right shoulder inflammation)
- Optioned to Reno following yesterday’s game: RHP Yilber Diaz and LHP Blake Walston
Worth starting by going over these in a little more detail. Good to have Nelson back, I initially though he would likely start later in the series: pitchers for tomorrow and Sunday have not been announced by the team at the time of writing. In theory, it should be Jordan Montgomery tomorrow and then Eduardo Rodriguez on Sunday, and I could see them going with Nelson tomorrow, on an abbreviated pitch count. However, Torey just said Nelson will be used as a reliever, though exactly how remains to be decided. I also note the team dropping a bullpen arm in favor of Thomas, who may be used as a late-inning defensive replacement and bat off the bench.
As for tonight, Kelly is asked to lead off the series, and hopefully he can set the tone with a victory. Hopefully, he has also had his pre-game banana, and does not end up having to cramp out before his outing is done. It’d be nice if he can finish the season undefeated, and ideally with a 6-0 record. Only three pitchers have ever gone undefeated while making 13 or more starts in a year: Noah Lowry (6-0 in 14 GS, 2004 Giants); Jason Bere (5-0, 14 GS, 1999 Reds/Brewers); and Kirk Rueter (6-0, 14 GS, 1993 Expos). The Padres have a solid offense (107 OPS+), so keeping them in check is going to be important tonight. Win, and it’ll be Torey’s beloved “downhill baseball” this series. The alternative… doesn’t bear considering.
Getting this up early, since I’m sure we’re all jittering around, eager for it to be first-pitch already!