The Arizona Diamondbacks' ace pitcher, Corbin Burnes, is making a promising comeback after a challenging season. Burnes, who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2025, has been a key player for the team, but a recent teres major strain in his right shoulder set him back. However, recent developments offer a glimmer of hope for his return.
A Setback and a Resilient Outlook
Burnes' journey back to the mound has been a challenging one. Initially, he aimed to return around this time, but the shoulder strain in June forced him to halt his progress. Despite the setback, Burnes remains optimistic, determined to make a comeback before the end of the year. Manager Torey Lovullo's positive update on Burnes' asymptomatic status and the encouraging MRI results further fuel this optimism.
The Road to Recovery
The next steps in Burnes' recovery involve getting back to throwing bullpens, which will provide a clearer timeline for his return. Lovullo's statement, 'Everything showed real good healing,' indicates that the team is cautiously optimistic about Burnes' progress. This cautious optimism is understandable, given the nature of his injury and the importance of a full recovery.
Other Key Players' Progress
The Diamondbacks are also closely monitoring the recovery of other key players. Starting pitcher Michael Soroka, who suffered a glute strain, is set to throw a bullpen on Tuesday or Wednesday, with a view to a live batting practice and a rehab outing. Reliever Justin Martinez, who underwent Tommy John surgery, is nearing his first live batting practice session, having one more bullpen before facing live hitters.
Additionally, starter Ryne Nelson, reliever A.J. Puk, and outfielder Jordan Lawlar will undergo MRIs on July 17 to assess their respective injuries. Lawlar has been hitting in the cage and working on his running mechanics, while Nelson and Puk have yet to throw a baseball since their latest injuries.
The Impact of Burnes' Return
Burnes' return to the mound would be a significant boost for the Diamondbacks, especially if he can make a successful comeback before the end of the season. His presence in the rotation could provide a much-needed midseason boost, helping the team maintain its competitive edge. However, the team must also consider the long-term health of Burnes, ensuring that his recovery is thorough and his return is sustainable.
Conclusion
The Diamondbacks' season has been a rollercoaster, but the recent developments with Burnes and other key players offer a reason for optimism. As Burnes continues his recovery, the team will be eagerly awaiting his return, hoping that it will strengthen their position in the highly competitive MLB landscape.
