Drey Jameson continues his comeback with hopes of getting back into the big leagues. The pitcher suffered an elbow injury that cost him most of the 2023 season and all of 2024. He was limited even more last season, but Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo hinted at the possibility of Jameson pitching in the Arizona Fall League (AFL). Jameson made that AFL debut on October 7.

Difficult Trek

It has been an arduous trek for Jameson to get back to pitching. However, in his first live game action since May, he pitched a scoreless inning for the Salt River Rafters. His four-seam fastball registered 99.4 MPH and also had three quick groundouts on eight pitches with five strikes.

Certainly Ahead

Jameson is undoubtedly ahead of the competition in the AFL. Most of the players are AA prospects or lower. However, just getting out on the mound to face live hitters is a benefit in itself. In his last appearance in May in the Arizona Complex League, he was shut down due to elbow discomfort. Being able to rehab with real-world game experience is advantageous to his game play and conditioning.

Electrifying Arm

Drey Jameson continues his comeback and has an electrifying arm when healthy. At his best, Jameson was hitting 100 MPH with his fastball. He complements that fastball with a competent sinker that shows good depth. His arsenal also includes a slider that results in many groundball outs, an added benefit.

Just Be Effective

With 68 innings pitched and six wins, the right-hander does have MLB experience. This is really a rehab assignment for him. He just needs to throw the ball effectively and without pain. His return via the AFL allows him the chance to rebuild his arm strength and regain his form in a competitive environment. Jameson’s experience is also a benefit to AFL hitters, most of whom haven’t seen that kind of velocity or command.

Stay Healthy

Drey Jameson continues his comeback, but questions regarding his ability to stay healthy remain at this point. Just pitching in the AFL is an essential step toward his goal of rejoining the Diamondbacks. It’s important for him to continue throwing the ball well in his AFL outings, especially from his command and velocity standpoints. If he can do that without further injury and no pain, his chances to regain and retain his spot on the big-league roster are good.

Part Of Another Rebuilt Bullpen

Jameson still has a spot on the Diamondbacks active 40-man roster. The team is once again rebuilding its bullpen and there will be a lot of open spots. Jameson certainly has the potential to be a back-of-the-bullpen arm. With both Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk out with arm injuries, the team is currently without a closer. A healthy Jameson could compete for the closer role in Spring Training 2026. He opened his AFL assignment with a successful outing. Should his AFL assignment remain as positive and successful, Jameson will be set for next season.