Arizona is battling for the final National League wild‑card spot, and the Diamondbacks have just taken a significant step to protect their chances. Right‑hander Corbin Burnes was placed on the 15‑day injured list on Friday with shoulder inflammation, ending his scheduled start against the San Diego Padres on Saturday night.
Burnes’ recent health history
Burnes, 31, signed a six‑year, $210 million contract before the 2025 season. He made only 11 starts that year before undergoing Tommy John surgery in June. A further setback in June 2026 to his right teres major muscle delayed his season debut until September 8. In his three starts this season, Burnes is 0‑0 with a 7.84 ERA over 10 1/3 innings.
Impact on the rotation
With Burnes unavailable, Arizona recalled right‑hander Jose Cabrera from Triple‑A Reno. Cabrera, 24, made his major‑league debut on June 21 and is currently 0‑3 with a 4.33 ERA in seven games (five starts). The Diamondbacks also have Zac Gallen and Ryne Nelson, both former starters who have been shifted to the bullpen, ready to log innings on Saturday.
Wild‑card chase
The move comes as the Diamondbacks sit two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies, holding the tiebreaker if the teams finish the season level. Arizona is riding a five‑game winning streak and hopes the roster adjustments will keep the momentum going as the regular season concludes on Sunday.
Burnes’ career highlights
Burnes was a fourth‑round pick of the Brewers in the 2014 draft and earned the NL Cy Young Award in 2021. He was a three‑time All‑Star with Milwaukee and added a fourth All‑Star selection during his lone season with the Baltimore Orioles in 2024. Over nine seasons, he has compiled a 63‑38 record with a 3.20 ERA in 213 games (152 starts).
The Diamondbacks will look to their depth pitchers to maintain the winning streak while Burnes recovers. Fans can follow the upcoming series against the Padres and the ongoing wild‑card race on the team’s official website and local sports broadcasts.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
