© Allan Henry-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks have been hit with another bullpen injury, this time losing one of the relievers who helped stabilize the group during the second half of the 2025 season.
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Sep 26, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Andrew Saalfrank (27) throws a pitch during the seventh inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
According to MLB.com’s Steve Gilbert, left-handed reliever Andrew Saalfrank will miss the entire 2026 season after undergoing shoulder surgery. The news marks a significant blow to a pitching staff that already faced questions heading into spring training.
Saalfrank addressed the season-ending injury on Instagram, calling it a “tough pill to swallow” as he begins the long road to recovery.
The 28-year-old southpaw was coming off a strong 2025 campaign after being called up in July. He posted a 1.24 ERA and a 1.00 WHIP across 28 innings and quickly emerged as a key bullpen piece. Rather than relying on velocity, Saalfrank carved up hitters by painting the corners, keeping left-handed batters off balance while also giving right-handers trouble.
Saalfrank was expected to serve as Arizona’s primary left-handed option in late-inning matchups. With him sidelined, the Diamondbacks will need to reshuffle bullpen roles and operate with one fewer left-hander, further testing the group’s depth.
Sep 16, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Andrew Saalfrank against the San Francisco Giants at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The injury also reflects a familiar storyline for the franchise. Arizona’s pitching staff has endured repeated setbacks in recent seasons, including injuries to AJ Puk and Justin Martinez. Losing Saalfrank only adds to a growing list of arms that have gone down.
There is, however, a potential silver lining following a recent trade.
On Feb. 5, the Diamondbacks dealt utility man Blaze Alexander to the Baltimore Orioles in exchange for right-handed reliever Kade Strowd and two prospects. While Strowd has limited major league experience, he showed promise last season, posting a 1.71 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP over 26.1 innings.
Aug 11, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Andrew Saalfrank (27) comes off the field after he pitches against the Texas Rangers during the ninth inning at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
Even with Strowd’s addition, Saalfrank’s absence will be felt. His unique pitching style played a role in several crucial wins, and replacing that production will not be easy.
In a competitive National League West, Arizona continues to be tested, raising questions about just how deep and resilient the bullpen can be without several key contributors in the mix.
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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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