"The initial recovery timeline following Lourdes Gurriel Jr.'s torn ACL in September was nine to 10 months. The 32-year-old outfielder is determined to beat that estimate. " He said Opening Day to me yesterday when I saw him," manager Torey Lovullo said, relayed by Alex Weiner of Arizona Sports. " That's how good he's feeling." Lovullo acknowledged that Gurriel getting back for the start of the regular season isn't happening."
"The Diamondbacks acquired Gurriel and Gabriel Moreno from the Blue Jays for Daulton Varsho in December 2022. Gurriel had a strong season after coming over, socking a career-best 24 home runs and earning his lone All-Star selection. He re-upped with the club the following year. Gurriel's wRC+ slipped below league average for the first time last season, though he still managed 19 home runs and 10 steals."
"Gurriel has been Arizona's primary left fielder the past two years, though that could change in 2026. John Gambadoro of 98.7FM Arizona Sports suggests Gurriel could split his time between DH and the outfield once he comes back. More DH time would allow the veteran to ease back in following major knee surgery. Arizona is currently looking at Jordan Lawlar and Jorge Barrosa as left field candidates, with Pavin Smith and Carlos Santana handling first base and DH."
Gurriel suffered a torn ACL in September and faced an initial nine-to-ten month recovery estimate. The 32-year-old outfielder is determined to beat that timeline and indicated he feels well enough to target Opening Day. The team does not expect him for the regular-season opener, though he appears to be progressing ahead of schedule. Gurriel exercised a $13MM player option for 2026 after forgoing an offseason opt-out from a three-year, $42MM deal. Arizona acquired him in December 2022; he hit a career-best 24 home runs and made the All-Star team before his wRC+ dipped below league average last season. Arizona may split his role between DH and left field to ease his return.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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