The Arizona Diamondbacks received a major boost on Monday with Michael Soroka returning from the injured list.
The 29-year-old pitched 4.1 scoreless innings in Arizona's 9-0 win against the Colorado Rockies in his first start since June 19 due to a left glute strain.
However, shortstop Geraldo Perdomo exited Monday's victory before the top of the fifth inning due to left knee soreness. He was replaced by veteran utility infielder Ildemaro Vargas.
Fortunately, manager Torey Lovullo revealed postgame that Perdomo's early exit was precautionary, as the Diamondbacks were already up 7-0 at the time.
"Just had some soreness that he was working through pregame," Lovullo said postgame. "I knew about it, and I want him to play. He's a very important piece of this team. And then around the fifth inning, I just felt like I could get him off of the field and start to maneuver with some other players. So he's a 50-50 call tomorrow. We might give him a rest tomorrow or the next day, and we know we have an off-day on Thursday, but he should be fine."
Perdomo first felt left knee soreness in Sunday's 4-2 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers while stretching for the bag while running to first.
The Diamondbacks remain unconcerned about Perdomo. Lovullo added that no imaging was planned, and there is no indication of a significant injury.
Still, if Perdomo is forced to miss any time, it would be a significant blow. In 116 games this season, he is slashing .244/.359/.374 with nine home runs, 42 RBI, and 17 stolen bases.
Although Perdomo's overall numbers are down from last season, when he finished fourth in National League MVP voting, he remains a key part of Arizona's offense.
Despite Perdomo's offensive regression, he has improved defensively in 2026. Perdomo's +9 Outs Above Average is four more than last season (+5) and ranks seventh among all qualified shortstops.
If Perdomo is held out of the lineup Tuesday or beyond, expect Vargas to get the start at shortstop until he returns. Vargas has played three games (one start) at the position this season, recording one error over 16 innings.
The Diamondbacks (64-56) enter Tuesday's game against the Rockies a season-high eight games over .500. Arizona looks to create further separation in a tight National League wild-card race with left-hander Mitch Bratt scheduled to take the mound at 9:40 p.m. ET.
Arizona is currently tied with the Philadelphia Phillies for the second wild-card spot in the NL. Both teams hold a one game lead over the San Diego Padres (63-57).
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