The Arizona Diamondbacks announced an unfortunate update on Friday: their star pitcher, Corbin Burnes, will undergo Tommy John surgery next week, sidelining him for the entirety of the 2025 season. The team has not provided a timeline for his return, but it is generally accepted that pitchers require 12 to 14 months for recovery after this type of surgery. Manager Torey Lovullo commented:

“I don’t have the exact diagnosis; I just know that Tommy John involves a ligament and it’s compromised. He needs this procedure. It’s a tough day, but we’ll rally around Corbin and play hard for him this season.”

Burnes, who recently signed a six-year, $210 million contract with the Diamondbacks, had been performing excellently, with a 2.66 ERA over 11 starts. This injury not only affects Burnes but might also jeopardize the Diamondbacks’ playoff aspirations. With a record of 31-31, the team sits 3 ½ games behind the National League wild card.

Key Factors in the Trade Deadline:

1. Shaky Performance: Even with Burnes, the Diamondbacks were not assured a playoff berth. Their recent performance shows inconsistencies, particularly as they face tough competition ahead.
2. Rotation Vulnerability: Without Burnes, the pitching rotation, which already struggled ranking 24th in ERA, could become a significant liability. The team will need strong performances from remaining pitchers or explore trading options.
3. Trade Opportunities: The Diamondbacks may consider trading some veterans approaching contract expirations, including pitchers like Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen, or outfielders like Randal Grichuk.

The ramifications of Burnes’ injury will be felt across the league, as it opens up potential trade dynamics affecting various teams leading up to the trade deadline.