D-backs Crush the San Diego Padres 11-1 and Make Roster Cuts

On Sunday night, the game between the D-backs and the San Diego Padres finally happened, which was pretty cool. Here’s some context to the “finally” which is probably no secret at this point.

The game between the D-backs and Padres was actually supposed to have been on Sunday afternoon with a first pitch at 1:10 p,m., but the heat rescheduled the first pitch to 6:10 p.m. at the Peoria Sports Complex. It was probably a big relief for everyone in the stands as well because Arizona has been unreasonably hot. Arizona prevailed 11-1.

The D-backs Officially Make a Comeback

The D-backs were not doing well at the beginning of Spring Training. Some say that Spring Training numbers do not make a huge difference. Some say that they make a big difference. Well whichever side you are on, Arizona was struggling.

However, on Sunday night in one of the final Cactus League games, Gabriel Moreno and Ildemaro Vargas played well. They gave the team a good lead and the D-backs were doing exceptionally in the 4th inning.

For a while people were not sure what to think about Brandyn Garcia. He has talent, but he often struggles to find the plate. Also, he had a terrible outing when the D-backs played the Rockies.

The D-backs Roster Cuts

Three roster cuts were made before the game Sunday night. One player who was optioned to Triple-A Reno was Philip Abner. Aramis Garcia and Jacob Amaya are now in minor league camp. Not that they necessarily had bad performances, but the D-backs are having to make some hard decisions when it comes to shrinking their roster.

Meanwhile, the team has purchased the contracts of two right-handed relievers. These relievers are Joe Ross, who is actually the brother of former MLB player Tyson Ross, and Jonathan Loáisiga, a 31-year-old pitcher from Nicaragua who is also known as “Jonny Lasagna.”

Ross spent 7 seasons with the Washington Nationals. However, after signing a contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, he was released because of a disappointing season. Loáisiga played eight seasons with the New York Yankees, and he was considered an elite reliever before he tore his UCL in 2024 and had to miss the rest of the season due to his surgery.

What Comes Next?

With Opening Day right around the corner, the Arizona Diamondbacks will look to play well and return to the MLB Playoffs.