SCOTTSDALE — As Spring Training advances, the Arizona Diamondbacks are proceeding carefully with their pitching staff, focusing on preserving their depth before the regular season begins. Their concern centers on two right-handed pitchers, including Cristian Mena, whose pitching injury has raised ongoing worries within the organization.
Brandon Pfaadt’s Gradual Return Due to Minor Side Issue
Manager Torey Lovullo revealed that Brandon Pfaadt is being “slow-played” because of a minor side problem identified during the offseason. Although the concern is minor, the team is closely managing his workload to avoid further complications. Pfaadt has recently taken part in a backfield game as part of his recovery and preparation, and the team expects him to be ready by Opening Day.
Right-hander Brandon Pfaadt is being “slow-played” because of some kind of a “side” issue that popped up during the offseason, manager Torey Lovullo said. Shouldn’t prevent him from being on time to start the season. He is pitching in a backfield game today.
— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) February 26, 2026
Cristian Mena’s Injury Flare-Up and Precautionary Approach
Meanwhile, Cristian Mena has aggravated his teres major injury—the same injury that sidelined him last year following a rainy game against Cincinnati in June. Arizona Sports’ Alex Weiner reported that, while Mena has undergone recent testing, the team has no plans for surgery at this time. To aid recovery, Mena has been restricted from throwing recently as the staff continues to monitor his condition carefully.
Staff Faces Multiple Health Challenges Ahead of Opening Day
These pitching issues add to the Arizona staff’s struggles over the past year. Scheduled Opening Day starter Merrill Kelly was ruled out for the first game due to back discomfort, underscoring the thin margin the team faces with its rotation’s health entering the season. With several key starters managing injuries, the Diamondbacks are placing strong emphasis on careful handling and long-term durability.
Implications for Team Strategy and Rotation Depth
Mena was anticipated to compete for a bullpen spot this spring, while Pfaadt remains a central figure in the starting rotation. Any significant setback to Pfaadt could create deeper complications, especially given the uncertainties surrounding other starting pitchers’ recoveries. Nonetheless, Lovullo’s recent remarks suggest the organization feels Pfaadt’s issue is something they can manage without alarm.
Diamondbacks Maintain Conservative Path Forward
Neither Pfaadt nor Mena is currently expected to undergo surgery, and the Diamondbacks appear committed to a cautious strategy throughout Spring Training. As Opening Day nears, the team will continue to evaluate their pitching roster closely, ready to adjust plans to safeguard the players’ health and maintain competitive balance.
Right-hander Brandon Pfaadt is being "slow-played" because of some kind of a "side" issue that popped up during the offseason, manager Torey Lovullo said. Shouldn't prevent him from being on time to start the season. He is pitching in a backfield game today.
— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) February 26, 2026
