Diamondbacks Seek Rotation Stability as Merrill Kelly Nears Return

Pfaadt looks to solidify spot in rotation as Kelly prepares for final rehab start

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:53pm

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The Arizona Diamondbacks will give right-hander Merrill Kelly one more rehab start before bringing him back off the injured list, manager Torey Lovullo said. Kelly, who was delayed during spring training by a back issue, threw five innings and 72 pitches in a rehab start for Triple-A Reno on Friday, April 3. Meanwhile, Diamondbacks RHP Brandon Pfaadt will take the mound against the Braves, looking to show he deserves to remain in the starting rotation.

Why it matters

With Kelly nearing his return, the Diamondbacks' starting rotation is in flux, and Pfaadt's performance could determine whether he keeps his spot or makes way for Kelly. The team is looking to solidify its pitching staff as it navigates the early part of the season.

The details

Lovullo said Kelly's pitch total was such that the club would prefer him to get one more rehab start under his belt before activating him, likely for the team's upcoming road trip to Baltimore on April 13-15. Pfaadt, who gave up five runs in six innings against the Tigers in his last start, will look to bounce back and prove he deserves to remain in the rotation.

  • Kelly threw 72 pitches in a rehab start for Triple-A Reno on April 3.
  • Pfaadt will take the mound against the Braves on April 5.

The players

Merrill Kelly

A right-handed pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is nearing a return from the injured list after being delayed during spring training by a back issue.

Torey Lovullo

The manager of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who announced that Kelly will make one more rehab start before being activated.

Brandon Pfaadt

A right-handed pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who will start against the Braves, looking to solidify his spot in the starting rotation.

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What they’re saying

“It's the buildup. It's the volume. Just assuring us — and I know he feels differently because he wants to go out there and compete — just building the volume. We want to make darn sure so we don't take any steps backward.”

— Torey Lovullo, Manager, Arizona Diamondbacks

What’s next

Kelly's next rehab start will likely come during the Diamondbacks' upcoming road trip to Baltimore on April 13-15, where he could make his season debut.

The takeaway

The Diamondbacks are taking a cautious approach with Kelly's return, prioritizing his long-term health and ensuring he is fully ready to contribute to the starting rotation. Pfaadt's performance against the Braves will be crucial in determining whether he retains his spot or makes way for Kelly's return.