And we haven’t even thrown out the first pitch.
Photo Credit: PHNX Sports
If you’re a Diamondbacks fan like me, you’ve probably already perfected that weary sigh: the one that escapes when you read “injury” and “Diamondbacks” in the same sentence. Well, dust it off, folks. Corbin Carroll fractured his hamate bone during a routine batting practice session, requiring surgery that could sideline him for Opening Day. Because of course he did.
One swing. That’s all it took. Carroll described it like a bee sting, and just like that, our 2024 comeback star. the guy who mashed 31 homers and swiped 32 bags, is on the shelf. He’ll miss the World Baseball Classic, and depending on how the six-week recovery goes, he might be watching the season opener against the Dodgers from a trainer’s room instead of right field at Dodger Stadium.
Here’s the thing that really stings for those of us sweating through another Arizona February: this feels like a rerun we’ve already watched. Last year’s team was an infirmary on cleats. This year? We’re opening without Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (knee surgery), Corbin Burnes, A.J. Puk, and Justin Martinez are all dealing with pitching issues. Now Carroll. It’s enough to make you wonder if someone buried a curse under Chase Field’s foundation.
Photo Credit: 12 News
But here’s where the stubborn Arizona optimism kicks in; the same mindset that convinces us 115 degrees is “not that bad.” Six weeks puts Carroll right on the edge of Opening Day. Geraldo Perdomo thinks he’ll only miss “a couple of games, probably.” Maybe none. And the Diamondbacks have depth: Jorge Barrosa, Jordan Lawlar transitioning to the outfield, top prospect Ryan Waldschmidt getting an extended look.
Manager Torey Lovullo wants “the most dynamic defense moving forward,” which is code for “we’re not rolling over.” And honestly? Neither should we. This team has clawed through worse. Carroll bounced back from a rough 2023. We made noise in the playoffs not too long ago.
So yeah, the season’s already limping before it starts. But it’s still our season. And somehow, despite everything, I’m still here for it.
Go D-Backs.