Ryne Nelson Shines in Diamondbacks Spring Debut

The young right-hander looks poised to build on his breakout 2025 season.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryne Nelson had an impressive spring training debut, pitching two perfect innings with three strikeouts and hitting 97.3 mph on his fastball. Nelson, who emerged as one of the team's best young arms in 2025, is looking to solidify his spot in the rotation and potentially earn the opening day start.

Why it matters

Nelson's development is a key part of the Diamondbacks' plans to build a strong, homegrown pitching staff. His dominant spring debut suggests he's poised to build on his breakout 2025 season and could be in line for an even bigger year in 2026.

The details

In his two innings of work, Nelson did not allow a baserunner, needing just 25 pitches to set down six straight batters. He showcased his full arsenal, mixing in his cutter, curveball and slider alongside his overpowering fastball that reached 97.3 mph. If Nelson can continue to refine his secondary pitches, his fastball could become an even more dominant weapon.

  • Nelson pitched his spring debut on Friday, February 28, 2026.

The players

Ryne Nelson

A 28-year-old right-handed pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who emerged as one of the team's best young arms in 2025.

Merrill Kelly

A Diamondbacks pitcher who was knocked off schedule by a back injury, opening the door for Nelson to potentially earn the opening day start.

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What they’re saying

“I feel the exact same coming into camp this year as I did last year. I think the second you get comfortable, and you think that things are going to be easy or whatnot, you start to let what got you here slip.”

— Ryne Nelson (MLB.com)

What’s next

Nelson will continue to build up his innings and work on refining his secondary pitches throughout spring training, with the goal of securing the opening day start against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The takeaway

Ryne Nelson's dominant spring debut is a promising sign for the Diamondbacks, who are counting on the young right-hander to anchor their rotation in 2026 and beyond. If he can maintain this level of performance, Nelson could emerge as one of the top young pitchers in the National League.