Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll He finished a live batting practice session Friday unscathed on his way back from a broken hamate. The two-time All-Star told reporters, including Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic, that he is nearing a return to spring training. Carroll added that he would like to play in 10 spring games.
Carol is still less than a month away from her surgery on February 11th. If he returns to the field soon, he will certainly be early in the typical timeline for returning from proceedings. Coach Torey Lovullo backed off a bit on Carroll’s prospects. “I admire Corbyn’s drive and determination. That’s what makes him great. But in this case, medical staff still have the situation under control.” Lovullo told reporters, including Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports.
If Carroll plays in a spring training game, his power stroke will be something to watch. Hamate bone injuries tend to affect long shots, especially early on. Carroll hit a career-high 31 home runs last season. He improved his hard-hit percentage to 49.9%, exactly 9% higher than his previous high. Carroll more than doubled the interest rate per barrel year-on-year, jumping from 7.2% in 2024 to 14.5% last year.
meryl kelly He continues to make progress after the last issue that threatened to place him on the IL to begin the 2026 campaign. The right-hander suffered a scrape during a live batting practice session in late February and told reporters he likely won’t be ready for Opening Day. His tone has changed since his cortisone and lidocaine injections last weekend. He played catch without a problem, and recently completed a bullpen session without incident. Kelly is scheduled to have a live batting practice session on Sunday, Lovullo told reporters (again to Weiner).
The injury kept Kelly back for a few weeks, but now he’s on track to break camp with the team and avoid the injured list. If Arizona places him in the back of the rotation, his turn won’t come until March 31 against the Tigers. The off day on March 29 could allow the Diamondbacks to push Kelly further back if they wish. Michael Soroka He could step in as a fifth starter to give Kelly extra time to prepare.
Elsewhere in the department thai france Kevin Acee of the San Diego Union-Tribune says they are pushing for a camp break with the Padres. The veteran infielder hit three balls traveling at least 105 mph in Saturday’s spring training game against the Guardians. One had a double this spring, raising France’s OPS to .944. “Gotta keep swinging like I did today“said director Craig Stammen.”If you can hit it, we’ll find a place for you.”
Staman added that the veteran will get more opportunities at second and third base. France has made a total of three appearances at second base over the past four big league seasons. He hasn’t played at the hot corner since 2022. The added defensive versatility should give him the legs to earn a roster spot on a squad with multiple first base/direction options.
San Diego’s outfielders include: Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackson Merrilland Ramon Laureanopush gavin sheets To first base. This causes France to go to war. Miguel Andujar, Nick Castellanosand Jose Miranda I use the left handed seat for DH and potentially platoon work. Miranda led the team in hits against France this spring with nine.
Other bench seats may be available depending on circumstances. Song Seong-moonRecovering from an oblique injury. The former KBO prospect dealt with right oblique issues in the offseason but came to camp healthy. He then felt pressure again in his oblique area during Thursday’s spring game and had to be removed. Ace later said that the team was encouraged by Song’s progress. “I’m going to try to move him around today.“Said Stamen.”Let’s see when (he) swings the bat.”
The club expects Song to return to spring training play at some point. Competing in the Cactus League will prepare you for Opening Day. Stamen added that outfield experimentation is currently paused.
Photo courtesy of Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images
