The Arizona Diamondbacks have made a significant roster adjustment, welcoming back veteran catcher James McCann from the injured list while reassigning Adrian Del Castillo to Triple-A Reno. This move follows McCann's recovery from a right quad strain and Del Castillo's challenging season at the plate, despite a notable recent performance. The team is now looking to solidify its lineup as it prepares for an upcoming series against the Padres, with pitching matchups featuring Brandon Pfaadt against Walker Buehler, and future games highlighting Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.
Diamondbacks Make Catcher Change as McCann Returns, Del Castillo Heads to Reno
On a Monday evening, July 6, 2026, the Arizona Diamondbacks announced the reinstatement of their seasoned catcher, James McCann, from the 10-day injured list. This decision necessitated a roster spot, leading to the optioning of catcher Adrian Del Castillo to the Triple-A Reno affiliate. McCann had been sidelined since May 19 due to a strained right quad. His return to the active roster follows a brief rehab stint with Triple-A Reno, where he had three at-bats without recording a hit or reaching base.
Before his injury, McCann had a .203 batting average, a .217 on-base percentage, and a .254 slugging percentage across 59 plate appearances. This contrasted sharply with his more robust 2025 season, where he boasted a .260 average, a .324 on-base percentage, a .431 slugging percentage, and five home runs in 41 contests.
Adrian Del Castillo, while having a memorable moment with a crucial three-run homer in the Diamondbacks' 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday, July 4, has generally struggled offensively throughout the current season. His challenges began with a calf injury that kept him out of spring training, followed by limited playing time in Triple-A Reno before his call-up to the major leagues in early April. In 151 at-bats, Del Castillo registered a .185 batting average, a .244 on-base percentage, a .311 slugging percentage, and five home runs.
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks are set to face the Padres in a series beginning Monday, July 6. The opening game will feature Diamondbacks right-hander Brandon Pfaadt (1-1, 5.40 ERA) against Padres right-hander Walker Buehler (5-4, 4.61 ERA) at Chase Field. Pfaadt, coming off a strong performance against the Giants, will gradually increase his pitch count. Buehler, despite a recent rough outing, has relied on his cutter effectively this season. Upcoming matchups include Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly pitching for the Diamondbacks on Tuesday and Thursday, respectively, against undisclosed Padres pitchers.
This roster adjustment underscores the dynamic nature of professional baseball, where player health and performance dictate strategic moves. For McCann, it's an opportunity to regain his form and contribute to the team's efforts. For Del Castillo, it's a chance to refine his skills in Triple-A, aiming for a stronger return to the majors. The Diamondbacks' management hopes this shift will bolster their competitive edge as the season progresses.
