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last wk.

Carroll Set for Cactus League DH Return as Gallen Named Diamondbacks’ Opening Day Starter

Arizona is managing workloads by naming Zac Gallen for Opening Day with Merrill Kelly still building up.

Image
Feb 17, 2026; Port St. Lucie, FL, USA; New York Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez (4) waits to catch batting practice during the New York Mets spring training workouts at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-Imagn Images
Mar 11, 2026; Jupiter, Florida, USA; Houston Astros pitcher Tatsuya Imai (45) throws against the Miami Marlins during the second inning at Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-Imagn Images
Mar 5, 2026; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; New York Mets second baseman Jorge Polanco (11) looks on before the game against the Washington Nationals at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Corbin Carroll was slated to DH on Wednesday against the A’s for his first major-league spring action since Feb. 10 hamate surgery.
  • Manager Torey Lovullo said Carroll feels no pain and is using added hand protection, with subsequent game usage to be determined after his debut.
  • Carroll accelerated his ramp-up with live BP on March 6 and 8 and seven controlled at-bats in a minor-league game on March 9.
  • Merrill Kelly, limited this spring by a back issue, is scheduled to pitch one inning Friday against the Royals in Surprise, and his Opening Day status remains uncertain.
  • Zac Gallen has been designated the Opening Day starter for March 26 at Dodger Stadium, with organizational depth — including Mike Soroka — available if Kelly needs more time.