Gabriel Moreno Scratched from Diamondbacks Lineup
The Arizona Diamondbacks have been dealt another blow as starting catcher Gabriel Moreno was scratched from the lineup due to lower back discomfort ahead of Wednesday’s game against the Atlanta Braves, the team announced just before the first pitch.
Lineup Adjustments
Despite being sidelined, Moreno will remain available off the bench, with Jose Herrera stepping into the starting lineup. This adjustment prompted changes to Arizona’s batting order against Braves right-handed pitcher Charlie Morton. Moreno, initially slated to bat sixth, was replaced by Herrera, who moved into the nine-hole. Shortstop Geraldo Perdomo, originally ninth, was bumped up to sixth.
Moreno’s Recent Performance
Moreno has been on an offensive tear since returning from the 10-day injured list (thumb) on July 2. In eight games this month, he is slashing .393/.469/.607 with a home run and three doubles. Entering Wednesday, Moreno was one of only 22 players in MLB with 11 hits this month, ranking 13th in on-base percentage.
“I think he’s letting the ball get deep; as a result, the bat path has been very pure and clean and right to the baseball, and he can cover both sides of the plate,” said manager Torey Lovullo about Moreno on Thursday.
Herrera’s Recent Form
Jose Herrera, who will replace Moreno in the lineup, has been performing well in recent games. He has recorded a hit in each of his last three starts, including a 1-for-2 performance with a double against the San Diego Padres on Saturday.
https://x.com/Dbacks/status/1811194760834773473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1811194760834773473%7Ctwgr%5Ea55a7a393395ee6f0e1b946e6dcc7c9ebc2afe32%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fburncitysports.com%2F2024%2F07%2F10%2Fgabriel-moreno-scratched-from-diamondbacks-lineup%2F
Looking Ahead
Moreno’s absence is a significant setback for the Diamondbacks, especially given his recent form. However, with Herrera stepping in and continuing his own solid performance, the team hopes to mitigate the impact of this loss. The Diamondbacks will need to rely on their depth and resilience as they face the formidable Braves and their right-hander, Charlie Morton.
Leave a Reply