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Diamondbacks closer Paul Sewald lands on IL after oblique strain

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Alec Cipollini | Last updated 3/25/24

Wrapping up the final few games of Spring Training, the Arizona Diamondbacks will be without their closing pitcher to open up the regular season.

According to AZCentral D’Backs beat writer Nick Piecoro, manager Torey Lovullo announced that Paul Sewald suffered a Grade 2 left oblique strain and there is no return timetable available, at the time of reporting.

“Closer Paul Sewald has a Grade 2 left oblique strain and will open the year on the injured list,” Piecoro stated. “Lovullo does not want to name a close right away, but Kevin Ginkel is the most likely option to get the first crack at the job.”

Lovullo doesn’t want to name a closer right away, but Kevin Ginkel is the most likely option to get the first crack at the job.

— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) March 25, 2024

Sewald joined the Diamondbacks via a trade from the Seattle Mariners on July 23 last year. Ryan Bliss, Josh Rojas and Dominic Canzone were dealt to Seattle.

Instantly implemented as Arizona’s key reliever, Sewald pitched 17.2 innings through 20 regular season games with a 3.57 ERA.

The Las Vegas native became one of the D’Backs’ most important players as they went all the way to the 2023 World Series.

Now with this injury, this spells the end of his Spring Training. In six games, he had a perfect 0.00 ERA and five strikeouts in 6.0 shutout innings.

Kevin Ginkel will presumably take over the closing role as mentioned before, though nothing is set and stone. Scott McGough and Miguel Castro are also options who had closing experience last season.

When more updates on this situation break, Burn City Sports will keep you informed.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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