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.
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.
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.
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.