The D-backs shake up their bullpen on July 3, 2025, DFA'ing Kyle Nelson and signing Jake Woodford before their pivotal series against the SF Giants. See why.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Arizona Diamondbacks made some serious noise ahead of Thursday's game, but it wasn't with their bats. In a significant shake-up of their relief corps, the team designated once-reliable lefty Kyle Nelson for assignment, signed right-hander Jake Woodford to a major league deal, and optioned rookie fireballer Juan Morillo to Reno. The moves signal a clear intent to address a struggling bullpen as the team heads into a pivotal series against the division-rival San Francisco Giants.
After being a key bullpen piece from 2022-2024, Kyle Nelson struggled to an 8.47 ERA over 20 appearances in Triple-A this year following his return from Thoracic Outlet Surgery.
It's a tough end to a chapter for Kyle Nelson, who was a key contributor out of the bullpen for several seasons. However, his post-surgery struggles in Triple-A Reno, where he posted a jarring 8.47 ERA, made this move feel inevitable. The front office is hoping new signee Jake Woodford can provide a steady veteran presence. To make room, the electric but raw Juan Morillo was optioned to Reno. While fans will miss his high-velocity fastball, the move gives the promising rookie a chance to refine his command, which will be crucial for his long-term success in the big leagues. This is a clear signal that the team is prioritizing immediate results from its relief corps.
With the roster moves settled, all eyes turn to the field at Chase Field tonight. The D-backs (43-42) host the San Francisco Giants (45-41) in a game with major NL West implications. The storyline is a juicy one, as former Diamondback Robbie Ray takes the mound for the opposition. Arizona will counter with Brandon Pfaadt, who will need to be sharp against a potent Giants lineup. The oddsmakers have the D-backs as home underdogs (+150), a nod to the challenge ahead. A win tonight would not only be a statement against a rival but also a huge boost for a team trying to climb back over .500 for good.
Today’s roster moves are a calculated risk, but a necessary one for a team seeking stability. The front office is betting that a refreshed bullpen can be the difference-maker in the tight games that define a playoff race. Tonight's showdown against the Giants is the first test of that theory. Can the D-backs rise to the occasion against a familiar face on the mound and gain crucial ground in the division? The answer will set the tone for the critical stretch ahead.
