The Arizona Diamondbacks aimed to strengthen their starting rotation during the offseason by adding Josh Grosz in a trade with the Colorado Rockies and acquiring Michael Soroka alongside re-signing Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly. However, Merrill Kelly will not begin the season due to intercostal nerve irritation in his back, raising concerns about his availability for the early games. The team remains hopeful Kelly can avoid the injured list, though nerve injuries are unpredictable and could result in an extended absence.
Adjusting the Rotation: Kelly’s Absence Opens Role for Other Starters
Arizona’s winter acquisitions, including Soroka and Gallen, offer necessary depth for the D-backs amid Kelly’s setback. According to Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report, with Kelly unlikely to return by Opening Day, Michael Soroka is expected to take the No. 5 starting spot. The anticipated rotation lineup is as follows:
1. Zac Gallen
2. Ryne Nelson
3. Eduardo Rodriguez
4. Brandon Pfaadt
5. Michael Soroka
The D-backs re-signed veteran Merrill Kelly to a two-year, $40 million deal after trading him to the Texas Rangers last summer, but he will be sidelined to start the year due to a nagging back issue. With Corbin Burnes also still recovering from Tommy John surgery, the late-offseason reunion with Zac Gallen becomes even more important, and he will likely take the ball on Opening Day.
— Joel Reuter, MLB Analyst
Gallen, viewed as a critical leader following a subpar 2025, is projected to start Opening Day. He will be supported by Ryne Nelson, who is coming off one of his strongest seasons. Left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez and Brandon Pfaadt will follow before Michael Soroka closes out the initial rotation. The group is tasked with maintaining competitiveness until Kelly’s potential return and the eventual comeback of Corbin Burnes, who is not expected before July.
Wider MLB Context
Beyond Arizona’s pitching challenges, MLB analysts have raised questions about other teams’ roster stability. Concerns have been voiced over the Minnesota Twins’ late-inning bullpen depth and the Chicago White Sox’s outfield consistency. Additionally, younger pitchers like the Guardians’ prospect and Nationals’ Cade Cavalli are under scrutiny as they prepare for opportunities in the coming years. Meanwhile, expectations remain high for Shane Baz to become a breakout arm for the Baltimore Orioles.
