What's happened
Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Corbin Burnes will undergo Tommy John surgery after suffering right elbow pain during a game. This follows a series of disappointing investments in pitchers by the team, raising concerns about their future performance and injury management. Burnes had a 2.66 ERA before the injury.
What's behind the headline?
Investment Risks
- The Diamondbacks have invested heavily in pitchers, totaling approximately $425 million over the past five years, yet the returns have been disappointing with a combined record of 30-48 and a 5.25 ERA.
- Burnes, who was seen as a reliable addition, now joins a list of injured pitchers, highlighting the risks associated with high-value contracts in an injury-prone sport.
Team Impact
- The loss of Burnes is significant for the Diamondbacks, who are already struggling with a 31-34 record. His absence will likely force the team to rely on less experienced pitchers, potentially worsening their performance.
- The situation reflects broader issues in MLB regarding pitcher injuries, as seen with other teams like the Dodgers, who also face a high number of injuries among their pitchers.
Future Outlook
- The Diamondbacks must reassess their strategy in acquiring pitchers, balancing the potential for high performance against the risk of injury. This could lead to a shift in how they approach future contracts and player development.
What the papers say
According to AP News, Burnes' injury is a significant blow to the Diamondbacks, who have already faced multiple pitching injuries this season. Manager Torey Lovullo expressed the team's commitment to rally around Burnes during his recovery, stating, "we’ll find a way to rally around him, play hard for him all year long." Meanwhile, the NY Post highlighted the immediate concern for Burnes' health, noting that he expressed discomfort during the game, saying, "my elbow is done, it’s dead." This sentiment underscores the gravity of the situation as the team navigates a challenging season.
How we got here
The Diamondbacks signed Burnes to a six-year, $210 million contract in January 2025, expecting him to be a key player. However, he is now set for surgery, adding to the team's struggles with injuries among their pitching staff, including Jordan Montgomery and Eduardo Rodríguez.
Go deeper
- What does Tommy John surgery involve?
- How will this affect the Diamondbacks' season?
- Who will replace Burnes in the pitching rotation?
Common question
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What Happened to Corbin Burnes? Elbow Surgery Explained
Corbin Burnes, a standout pitcher for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is set to undergo elbow surgery after being placed on the injured list due to inflammation. This news raises questions about his health and the implications for his career and the team's performance. Here are some common questions surrounding this situation.
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