In an intriguing move before their exhibition clash with the Guardians at Chase Field, the D-backs have finalized their Opening Day bullpen, and it's a lineup dominated by right-handers.
Joe Ross and Jonathan Loáisiga, both non-roster invitees, have secured their spots alongside Paul Sewald, Kevin Ginkel, Ryan Thompson, and Taylor Clarke. This left a couple of spots up for grabs between Brandyn Garcia, Andrew Hoffman, and Juan Morillo.
Brandyn Garcia, the club’s No. 20 prospect, was informed he’ll start the season with Triple-A Reno. The twist? Garcia is the only lefty among them.
Manager Torey Lovullo addressed the media, acknowledging the absence of a left-handed pitcher in the bullpen. “I know you guys are doing the math,” he said. “We’re comfortable with our reverse-split guys to handle left-handed hitters.”
Lovullo anticipates Garcia will join the bullpen later this season, once he sharpens his command at Triple-A. “Our focus is on filling up the strike zone,” Lovullo explained. “With some quality work, Garcia will be back to showcase his potential.”
For now, Lovullo is counting on right-handers like Ginkel and Morillo to neutralize lefty batters. Ginkel’s splits from last season show he handled lefties better than righties, with a .220/.306/.390 line against left-handers compared to .328/.403/.426 against right-handers. Morillo also showed a knack for keeping lefties in check during his rookie season.
As for Loáisiga, Lovullo sees potential but isn't rushing to assign him a specific role against lefties. “He’s got great stuff, but I want to learn more about him as the season unfolds,” Lovullo noted.
The D-backs’ bullpen will face an immediate challenge with a three-game series at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers, featuring left-handed powerhouses like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman, will test the D-backs’ righty-heavy bullpen from the start.
“They’re a formidable team, whether facing lefties or righties,” Lovullo said. “I’m always concerned, but it drives our preparation. Opening the season in L.A. against the champs is a challenge we embrace.”
With the season opener approaching, the D-backs are set to prove their strategic choices against one of the league’s toughest lineups.