© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
BARQUISIMETO — In the midst of offseason activity, Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno is taking reps at first base with the Cardenales de Lara in the Venezuelan Winter League.
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Apr 30, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) looks back a runner at first base after catching a pitch in the dirt against the New York Mets during the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
Moreno has primarily played catcher during his three seasons with Arizona, but he is looking to expand his versatility and increase his value. While the team has not indicated any plans to move Moreno to first base in 2026, exploring the position gives him flexibility and allows him to stay in the lineup more often.
Moreno has struggled with injuries during his time in the desert, missing extended stretches behind the plate. Moving him occasionally to first base could help preserve his health while still keeping his bat in the lineup.
Arizona Diamondbacks batter Gabriel Moreno (14) makes contact with a pitch against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Chase Field in Phoenix, on Sept. 24, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks also have a practical need at first base, as Tyler Locklear continues to recover from injury. Moreno could provide a valuable option, giving himself rest from catching while remaining a key contributor without relying solely on the designated hitter role.
Arizona signed veteran catcher James McCann to a one-year deal this offseason, ensuring Moreno will have a reliable backup. That reduces pressure on Moreno while he experiments with a new position.
Jun 3, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno (14) and starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) react after an out against the Atlanta Braves in the seventh inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
Moreno is also preparing for the possibility of representing Venezuela in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, expressing interest in playing for his national team.
“It’d be an honor to have Venezuela on my chest,” he said Dec. 6, according to One Baseball Network. “Especially with how much I love this country.” (Translated from Spanish to English)
¡Incorporación de lujo! 💪🏻
Gabriel Moreno se sumó a Cardenales el pasado sábado, siendo uno de los refuerzos de jerarquía para lo que resta de temporada. Lo más importante es que el grandeliga, de momento, no tiene restricciones y jugará “hasta donde el equipo llegue”. 🔥
Esta… pic.twitter.com/ljXWLBcLl1
— BeisbolPlay (@beisbolplaycom) December 8, 2025
The Diamondbacks could benefit from their catcher’s expanded skill set, creating a multimensional player who can help maximize playing time for the core lineup while keeping himself healthy.
As Moreno continues to play with the Cardenales this offseason and explores first base, he could emerge as both a key contributor for Arizona and a potential representative for Venezuela in the WBC.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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