Snake Bytes: Diamondbacks News Roundup

A summary of the latest Arizona Diamondbacks and MLB news and notes

Mar. 21, 2026 at 2:33pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Arizona Diamondbacks have been busy in spring training, with updates on pitcher Michael Soroka's strong outing, the rescheduling of a Cactus League game due to heat, and comments from pitcher Zac Gallen on his final spring start. The team also faces questions about their bullpen and closer situation as Opening Day approaches. Additionally, the Diamondbacks welcomed back pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez from the World Baseball Classic, while the Padres signed former Dodgers ace Walker Buehler, and the Red Sox named Marcelo Mayer their starting second baseman. Buster Olney also shared some spring training takeaways, and the Phillies' top prospect Andrew Painter made their Opening Day rotation.

Why it matters

The Diamondbacks are looking to build on a promising 2022 season and make a push for the playoffs in 2023. These spring training updates provide insight into the team's preparations, roster decisions, and key players as they gear up for the new season. The broader MLB news also highlights player movement, prospect development, and storylines that will shape the upcoming campaign.

The details

Diamondbacks pitcher Michael Soroka had a strong outing against the White Sox, making a case for a spot in the team's rotation. A Cactus League game was rescheduled due to the ongoing heat wave in the Phoenix area. Zac Gallen discussed his final spring start before the regular season begins, as he prepares to face the Dodgers on Opening Day. The Diamondbacks' bullpen and closer situations remain uncertain, with concerns about reliever Paul Sewald. The team welcomed back pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez after he led Venezuela to the World Baseball Classic title. The Padres signed former Dodgers ace Walker Buehler, who is looking to bounce back after multiple Tommy John surgeries. The Red Sox named top prospect Marcelo Mayer their starting second baseman, while Buster Olney shared some spring training takeaways. The Phillies' top prospect, Andrew Painter, also made their Opening Day rotation.

  • Michael Soroka's strong outing was in his final spring training game.
  • The Cactus League game rescheduling is due to the continuing heat wave in the Phoenix area.
  • Zac Gallen's Friday start was his last outing before the regular season begins.
  • Eduardo Rodriguez returned to the Diamondbacks after leading Venezuela to the WBC title.
  • Andrew Painter, the Phillies' top prospect, made their Opening Day rotation.

The players

Michael Soroka

A Diamondbacks pitcher who had a strong outing in his final spring training game, making a case for a spot in the team's rotation.

Zac Gallen

A Diamondbacks pitcher who discussed his final spring start before the regular season begins, as he prepares to face the Dodgers on Opening Day.

Paul Sewald

A Diamondbacks reliever who continues to make fans nervous about the team's bullpen and closer situations.

Eduardo Rodriguez

A Diamondbacks pitcher who returned to the team after leading Venezuela to the World Baseball Classic title.

Walker Buehler

A former Dodgers ace who has signed with the Padres and is looking to bounce back after multiple Tommy John surgeries.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“No big surprises here, though some interesting predictions.”

— Buster Olney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The Diamondbacks are making key roster decisions and player evaluations as they prepare for the 2023 season, with a focus on building a competitive team that can contend for a playoff spot. The broader MLB news highlights the constant player movement and development that shapes the league's landscape each year.