Diamondbacks Adjust Starting Rotation for Series Against Nationals
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks are making a strategic adjustment to their pitching rotation, moving ace Corbin Burnes to start Sunday’s home game against the Washington Nationals. Manager Torey Lovullo announced this realignment is designed to keep Burnes on regular rest, benefiting from a scheduled off day on Thursday before the three-game series begins, followed by another off day on Monday.
The adjustment also allows pitcher Ryne Nelson to enjoy additional rest after a demanding outing. Nelson recently pitched 84 pitches during Monday’s win against the Pittsburgh Pirates, marking his highest pitch count of the season. He is set to take the mound on Tuesday against the Atlanta Braves.
"It’s in no way an indication that [Nelson is] not healthy. He feels great," Lovullo reassured fans, emphasizing Nelson’s strong recovery following a stint as a long reliever before stepping into the starting role while Eduardo Rodriguez recuperates from left shoulder inflammation on the injured list. Rodriguez is scheduled to throw in the Arizona Complex League this Friday, although the timeline for his return remains uncertain.
Despite the challenges of managing workloads, Lovullo expressed confidence in Nelson’s health and performance, highlighting the physically demanding nature of pitching. “He’s healthy, but I know what it feels like the next morning when he goes too hard, too long,” Lovullo noted, acknowledging the difficulties of recovery.
Burnes is riding momentum from his prior outing, where he delivered seven innings of two-earned-run baseball against the Pirates, adding to the Diamondbacks’ strong push as they prepare for upcoming matchups.
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