The Arizona Diamondbacks are preparing to make room for Corbin Burnes as their ace finally returns to the mound. Right-hander Gerardo Carrillo is expected to be optioned to Triple-A Reno to clear an active roster spot for Burnes ahead of Tuesday’s start against the Kansas City Royals.
Burnes is set to make his 2026 debut after missing the season while recovering from Tommy John surgery. The long-awaited return gives Arizona a major reinforcement as it battles for a National League Wild Card spot.
John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM Phoenix reported that Carrillo is expected to be the roster casualty. The 27-year-old rookie has appeared in 13 games this season, all in relief, posting a 3-1 record, 4.15 ERA and 21 strikeouts over 17.1 innings.
Carrillo’s recent struggles made him a logical candidate for the move. He allowed three runs on two hits and a walk during Monday’s extra-inning victory over Kansas City, while his 16 walks this season have contributed to a 1.731 WHIP.
Burnes, meanwhile, has spent more than a year working his way back from a major elbow injury. He underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2025 after making 11 starts for Arizona and posting a 2.66 ERA.
The former Cy Young winner also experienced a setback this summer when he suffered a right teres major strain during his throwing progression. He has since built his workload back up through minor league bridge games and reached 53 pitches in his latest outing.
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Arizona is expected to manage Burnes carefully Tuesday, with his pitch count potentially limited to roughly 60-70 pitches. Even with that restriction, his return could significantly change the outlook for a Diamondbacks rotation that has dealt with several injuries.
Arizona entered Tuesday at 77-68, holding the third National League Wild Card spot and a one-game lead over the San Diego Padres. With the postseason race tightening, Burnes could not be returning at a more important time.
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