Diamondbacks Catcher Gabriel Moreno Exits Early with Back Injury

Severity of injury remains unknown as McCann replaces Moreno behind the plate.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:34am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a baseball catcher from multiple angles, with sharp planes of navy, green, and orange representing the dynamic motion of the game.A cubist interpretation of a catcher's perspective captures the fragmented, high-intensity action of a baseball game.Phoenix Today

Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno was forced to exit Friday's game early due to lower back tightness. Moreno went 0-for-1 at the plate before being replaced by James McCann to start the bottom of the third inning.

Why it matters

Moreno has been a key part of the Diamondbacks' lineup this season, batting .275 with 5 doubles and 5 RBIs through 13 games. Any extended absence could be a significant blow to the team's offense and catching depth.

The details

The severity of Moreno's back injury remains unknown, but the Diamondbacks are expected to provide an update soon. McCann, who replaced Moreno behind the plate, would likely be in line to start if the 26-year-old catcher is forced to miss time.

  • Moreno exited the game in the bottom of the third inning on Friday, April 10th.

The players

Gabriel Moreno

A 26-year-old catcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is batting .275 with 5 doubles and 5 RBIs this season.

James McCann

The Diamondbacks' backup catcher who replaced Moreno behind the plate on Friday.

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What’s next

The Diamondbacks are expected to provide an update on the severity of Moreno's back injury in the coming days.

The takeaway

Moreno's early exit is a concerning development for the Diamondbacks, who have relied on the young catcher's production this season. The team's catching depth will be tested if Moreno is forced to miss extended time.