Zac Gallen, Michael Soroka reinstated ahead of D-backs return

The Arizona Diamondbacks reinstated starting pitchers Zac Gallen and Michael Soroka from the injured list on Wednesday ahead of their returns in Kansas City against the Royals.

With both pitchers on a pitch count, D-backs manager Torey Lovullo will use both on Wednesday. Gallen will open the game, with Soroka entering after. Lovullo cited the experience edge for Soroka in the bullpen as the deciding factor. Gallen has never appeared in relief before.

Gallen has struggled mightily this year, sporting a 6.34 ERA and 1.561 WHIP in 98 innings this season. His ERA would be the worst in the majors if he qualified for the leaderboards.

Soroka has been one of Arizona’s bright spots with a 3.40 ERA and 1.164 WHIP in 95.1 innings.

Gallen has not pitched since July 7 while Soroka last appeared on Aug. 22.

Corbin Burnes also made his return on Tuesday, which will lead to a crunch for the starting rotation. Eduardo Rodriguez and Brandon Pfaadt comfortably hold their spots, while Merrill Kelly’s struggles have him and Gallen as the potential odd men out.

Relivers Kade Strowd and Blake Walston were optioned to Triple-A Reno to make room for the pair of starters. Both appeared in Tuesday’s win to help fill out the rest of the game with Burnes on a pitch count.

First pitch on Wednesday is set for 4:40 p.m., with pregame coverage beginning at 4 p.m. on the Arizona Sports app and 98.7 FM

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