AVANDATIMES.COM – The Arizona Diamondbacks have received optimistic reports regarding the recovery of two key players, outfielder Corbin Carroll and pitcher Merrill Kelly, as spring training progresses. Both athletes, sidelined with significant injuries, appear to be on an accelerated path back to competitive play, according to recent assessments from manager Torey Lovullo.
Merrill Kelly, the veteran right-hander, has been managing intercostal nerve irritation, which caused mid-back tightness and disrupted his initial spring training schedule. However, recent developments suggest a positive turn. Following a bullpen session on Thursday, Kelly reported feeling well, a crucial step forward in his rehabilitation.
Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo confirmed Kelly’s progress, stating, as reported by Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports 98.7, that Kelly came out of his bullpen session on Thursday “feeling good.” This positive outcome has paved the way for Kelly to advance to a live batting practice session scheduled for Sunday, marking a significant milestone in his return.
While Kelly’s recovery trajectory is encouraging, the initial setback means he will not be available to make the Opening Day start for the Diamondbacks. The team has yet to announce a replacement starter for the season opener. His ability to avoid starting the regular season on the injured list hinges on a continued, setback-free ramp-up.
Meanwhile, superstar outfielder Corbin Carroll, who underwent surgery for a broken hamate bone in his non-throwing hand early in camp, has also demonstrated remarkable progress. On Friday, Carroll was observed taking swings against live pitching, participating in batting practice against right-hand pitching prospect Patrick Forbes at Salt River Fields.
Carroll expressed confidence in his recovery following the session. Nick Piecoro of AZCentral quoted Carroll saying he “felt fine out there in his live BP today. Says he could be back in games soon — and that he’s aiming to play in 10 games before Opening Day.” This ambitious target underscores Carroll’s determination to rejoin the team for the start of the regular season, despite having missed the World Baseball Classic due to the injury.
AvandaTimes observed that Carroll’s recovery, particularly after the hamate bone removal, now primarily focuses on pain management. His demonstrated high pain tolerance is a factor in his rapid return. However, the potential long-term impact of the injury on his power output remains an area of ongoing observation as he continues to progress.