Diamondbacks Catcher Gabriel Moreno Sidelined with Injury

Moreno's IL stint opens door for backup Adrian Del Castillo as Diamondbacks adjust lineup

Apr. 12, 2026 at 8:53am

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting the equipment and gear of a baseball catcher, with sharp, overlapping planes in muted tones of navy, slate, and olive green, conveying the physical demands of the position.A cubist interpretation of the physical demands and equipment of a baseball catcher, reflecting the challenges faced by players in this crucial position.Philadelphia Today

Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno has been placed on the injured list with a muscular issue, disrupting the team's lineup and catching depth. Moreno's injury highlights the physical toll on catchers, who often suffer from various ailments due to the demands of the position. In Moreno's absence, backup Adrian Del Castillo stepped up with an impressive performance, showcasing the team's roster resilience.

Why it matters

Catcher injuries can significantly impact a team's performance, as the position is crucial for game-calling, pitch-framing, and managing the pitching staff. The Diamondbacks must now adjust their strategy and lineup without their starting catcher, testing the depth of their roster and raising questions about the long-term health of Moreno.

The details

Moreno, a promising young catcher for the Diamondbacks, is now headed to the injured list with a muscular issue. The team is optimistic that the injury is not severe and that Moreno may not be sidelined for an extended period. In Moreno's absence, backup catcher Adrian Del Castillo stepped up, collecting three hits in the recent game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

  • On April 12, 2026, the Diamondbacks announced that Moreno would be placed on the injured list.

The players

Gabriel Moreno

The starting catcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who has been placed on the injured list with a muscular issue.

Adrian Del Castillo

The backup catcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks who has stepped up in Moreno's absence, collecting three hits in a recent game.

Brandon Pfaadt

The Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher who made headlines for wearing pink shoelaces as a creative gender reveal for his brother's baby.

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What they’re saying

“We don't anticipate this being a long absence for Gabriel, but we'll have to see how he responds to treatment.”

— Steve Gilbert, MLB.com reporter

What’s next

The Diamondbacks will continue to monitor Moreno's recovery and determine when he can return to the lineup. In the meantime, Adrian Del Castillo will have the opportunity to prove himself as the team's starting catcher.

The takeaway

Catcher injuries are a common occurrence in baseball due to the physical demands of the position, and the Diamondbacks' situation with Gabriel Moreno serves as a reminder of the importance of roster depth and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges. The team's ability to navigate Moreno's absence will be a key factor in their overall performance this season.