Adrian Del Castillo -- General News

Adrian Del Castillo has returned to active duty for the Arizona Diamondbacks after missing the first week of the season and all spring training due to a calf strain. Manager Torey Lovullo announced that Del Castillo will bat fifth against right-handed pitchers as a designated hitter, positioned behind catcher Gabriel Moreno in the order.

The Diamondbacks face significant lineup depth concerns heading into their matchup against the New York Mets. Pavin Smith and Jordan Lawlar have both suffered early-season injuries, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. is not expected to return until late April or May at the earliest. Del Castillo's return is critical to providing offensive production in the middle of the order.

Del Castillo made his season debut on Saturday, going 0-for-3, and was held out of Sunday's game against a left-handed starter. He prepared for his return with two rehab games for Triple-A Reno while also participating in extended batting practice at Salt River Fields, securing additional at-bats alongside Gurriel and Corbin Carroll. Lovullo noted that Del Castillo remains available to catch but currently ranks third on the depth chart behind Gabriel Moreno and James McCann, with his bat being the priority.

During his 2024 debut, Del Castillo displayed significant power potential, slugging .525 with 25 games played, highlighted by a grand slam in his Miami hometown and a walk-off home run in his Philadelphia debut. Injuries limited his availability last season, though he received regular at-bats against right-handed pitchers following the All-Star break.