Get ready, baseball fans, because Corbin Burnes is officially back in action for the Arizona Diamondbacks! The ace pitcher just got activated from the 60-day injured list, marking his first start since way back on June 1, 2025. This dude has been sidelined for over a year, all thanks to that nasty elbow injury that needed Tommy John surgery.
The Return of a Cy Young Arm
Burnes originally told reporters he was pushing for an aggressive recovery, even targeting a return around the All-Star break. It took a little extra time, but now he’s finally ready to pitch again, hitting the mound Tuesday night to face the Kansas City Royals. This guy’s got a serious track record, entering his second season with the Diamondbacks after signing a six-year, $210 million monster deal before the 2025 season. Let’s not forget, he dominated with Milwaukee, snagging the 2021 NL Cy Young Award. That year, he put up an insane 11-5 record with a 2.43 ERA, striking out 234 batters in 167 innings over 28 games. Before his elbow issue hit last year, he was looking good with a 3-2 record and a 2.66 ERA in 11 starts. He’s been in the league since 2018, starting with the Brewers before a quick stop with the Orioles.
High Stakes and a Stacked Rotation
His return couldn’t come at a more crucial time. The Diamondbacks are sitting at 77-68, holding onto second place in the NL West, just behind the Los Angeles Dodgers. More importantly, they’ve got that third NL Wild Card spot, but it’s a tight race, with only a half-game lead on the San Diego Padres. Burnes is joining a rotation that’s already got a legit leader in Eduardo Rodriguez, who’s been absolutely dealing this year with a 15-5 record and a 2.55 ERA. Oh, and about that contract: Burnes has an opt-out after *this* season. If he sticks around, he’s looking at $35 million a year for four more seasons, locked in through 2030. Arizona also brought up pitcher Kade Strowo from Triple-A, sending down Gerardo Carrillo and Jose Cabrera.
This Tuesday night showdown against the Royals is HUGE. With the Wild Card spot breathing down their necks, getting Corbin Burnes back in the rotation is a massive boost. Can he bring that Cy Young magic and help secure their spot? We’re about to find out!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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