Arizona Diamondbacks catcher Gabriel Moreno was a late scratch from Friday’s game against the Kansas City Royals because of tightness in his right forearm, manager Torey Lovullo said.
Moreno had been scheduled to be in the lineup, but the team removed him before first pitch after he reported the discomfort. Lovullo did not provide additional details about how or when the issue surfaced, but the club opted to hold Moreno out as a precaution and arrange further evaluation.
The Diamondbacks did not immediately disclose the extent of the tightness or a timeline for Moreno’s return, and there was no formal diagnosis announced at the time. Additional testing is planned to determine the severity of the forearm issue and to guide the team’s next steps with its starting catcher.
Moreno, regarded as an important part of Arizona’s core, plays a significant role both offensively and defensively. His work with the pitching staff and his responsibilities behind the plate have made him a key figure in the Diamondbacks’ game planning. Any extended absence would require adjustments to the catching depth chart and game-day preparation.
With Moreno unavailable for Friday’s matchup, the Diamondbacks turned to their other catching options to handle duties behind the plate. The club is expected to monitor Moreno’s status closely while awaiting the results of his medical tests. Until those results are known, the team is likely to be cautious in determining when he will return to game action.
Forearm issues can range from minor tightness to more significant injuries, and teams commonly respond by removing players from the lineup when symptoms appear, especially at this point in the calendar. Arizona’s approach reflects a desire to address the concern early and avoid potential aggravation.
Further information on Moreno’s condition is expected once the Diamondbacks receive and review the results of his testing. For now, his availability remains day-to-day pending medical evaluation and the club’s assessment of how he responds to treatment and rest.
