The D-backs shut out the Padres 2-0 on June 16, 2025, but the victory is overshadowed by Corbin Burnes' season-ending injury and trade talks for Zac Gallen.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Arizona Diamondbacks provided a perfect snapshot of their current reality on Sunday: brilliant, resilient, and deeply precarious. On the field, the pitching staff delivered a masterful 2-0 shutout against the rival San Diego Padres to extend a crucial winning streak. But off the field, the front office is grappling with a wave of devastating injuries and the looming trade deadline, forcing questions that will define the rest of the season.
With ace Corbin Burnes officially lost for the season, GM Mike Hazen is fielding trade inquiries on expiring contracts for Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, Josh Naylor, and others.
In a classic display of pitching and defense, the Diamondbacks silenced the Padres' bats for a full nine innings. The 2-0 victory was a much-needed shot in the arm, keeping the team firmly in the hunt in a competitive NL West. While GM Mike Hazen recently noted the team's struggles to hit with runners in scoring position, the arms on the mound made sure two runs were more than enough. It was the kind of gritty, staff-wide performance that builds momentum and proves the team can win even when not firing on all cylinders.
The joy of the win is tempered by the grim reality in the training room. The club is still reeling from the news that ace Corbin Burnes requires season-ending Tommy John surgery, a massive blow to the rotation. The bullpen is also in tatters, with co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez both sidelined. The situation with Martinez became more severe as he was officially transferred to the 60-day injured list, signaling he won't be back anytime soon. These injuries create significant holes that can't be easily filled from within.
In response to the pitching crisis, the Diamondbacks made a move to shore up their depth, signing veteran right-hander Anthony DeSclafani. To make room, Bryce Jarvis was optioned to Triple-A Reno. This is likely just the first of many moves for GM Mike Hazen, who acknowledged he's receiving trade calls for a host of players on expiring contracts. Names like Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, Eugenio Suárez, Josh Naylor, and Randal Grichuk are all reportedly being discussed. Hazen faces a monumental decision: does he subtract from a winning team to build for the future, or does he push his chips in for a playoff run despite the injuries?
While Sunday's win was a testament to the team's 'next man up' mentality, the real test lies ahead. The Diamondbacks are navigating a treacherous path, balancing a tight division race with crippling injuries and franchise-altering decisions. The next few weeks won't just define the 2025 season; they could shape the direction of the team for years to come.