The Diamondbacks Get Their Closer Back, Ready to Reclaim Role

Paul Sewald Reinstated from Injured List

The absence of Sewald wasn’t good for the DBacks, as the right-hander was a key member of their bullpen down the stretch last season. Acquired from the Seattle Mariners at the deadline last year, Sewald posted 13 saves for Arizona with a 3.57 ERA. Sewald added another six saves in the postseason as the DBacks fell short in the World Series. He had a breakout year with the Mariners in 2021 and has since spent the past three seasons as one of the more consistent relievers in baseball. Since 2021, Sewald has thrown 189 1/3 innings with a 2.95 ERA. He struck out 33.9 percent of batters faced in that time while walking 8.6 percent of them. He earned more save situations in that span, gathering 11 of them in 2021, 20 the following year and 34 last year.

The DBacks have been Hit with Injuries

The return of Sewald is good news for Arizona, who have been hit with a few major injuries this season. In particular, Merrill Kelly was moved to the 60-day IL with a right shoulder strain. Due to his transfer from the 15 to 60-day IL, Kelly isn’t expected to return until late June. His rehab progress in the coming weeks could determine if Kelly will need more time beyond the timeline. Offseason signing Eduardo Rodríguez was shut down from throwing in mid-April after experiencing tightness in his shoulder. The left-hander will need a lengthy build-up period before heading to a minor-league rehab assignment. Rodríguez will undergo an MRI this week for an update on his recovery process, after which he could be cleared to resume a throwing program.

Alek Thomas In Line to Return This Week

Alek Thomas began a rehab assignment last week. Thomas, who played in the field and DH, has appeared in three consecutive games. He hit safely in all three while driving in five runs. He’s expected to meet up with the DBacks in Cincinnati for a three-game series starting Tuesday. Frankie Montas is scheduled to start for the Reds, so the left-handed hitter could be in the lineup for the series opener.