Diamondbacks News
Kelly got off to a scratchy start Thursday, needing 35 pitches to get through two innings, but quieted several jams en route to his best outing since tossing his first career complete game against the Colorado Rockies (May 15).
After conceding a solo shot to Machado on his first pitch of the second frame, Kelly produced three 1-2-3 innings while striking out five San Diego batters and only allowing
two hits.
(SI.com) D-backs DFA Pavin Smith, Recall Ryan Waldschmidt in Surprise Move
The Arizona Diamondbacks are about to part ways with one of their regular lineup staples, and are recalling a promising rookie.
According to a report by AZCentral’s Nick Piecoro, first baseman and DH Pavin Smith, who was in the midst of an extremely tough 2026 season, has been designated for assignment. Top prospect Ryan Waldschmidt has been recalled from Triple-A Reno.
(AZ Central) DBacks cut ties with Pavin Smith, salvage split with Padres
Smith, who did not play in the Diamondbacks’ 3-1 win over the San Diego Padres at Petco Park, a victory that salvaged a split of a four-game series, was unable to get going at the plate this year, going just 11 for 78 (.141) with two extra-base hits in 28 games.
His struggles have contributed to a Diamondbacks offense that has slumped badly over the past six weeks. They also played a part in the club’s historic lack of production at first base this season.
MLB News
With the 2026 MLB Draft, Home Run Derby and All-Star Game just around the corner, all eyes will be on Philadelphia’s Citizens Bank Park over the next week. But let’s not forget: The MLB trade deadline is less than four weeks away on Aug. 3.
With so many teams in the middle of the pack, it’s difficult to know who will buy, who will sell and what will transpire over the next few weeks. Here are seven big questions as the trade deadline approaches.
(MLB.com) Valencia makes dream debut, becomes 10th Tiger to homer in first MLB at-bat
“Ten years ago, I didn’t think I was going to sign,” Valencia said, fighting through tears. “Five years ago, I thought it was the end of my career after [Tommy John surgery], after hamstrings, after surgery on my hand. Thank God.”
The drive for a moment like Thursday kept Valencia going. And as his seventh-inning drive off Athletics reliever Hogan Harris soared towards the deepest part of Comerica Park, barely clearing the fence and Henry Bolte’s glove in center field, the moment was bigger than he could’ve dreamed.
(ESPN) MLB reduces Willson Contreras’ suspension to 5 games
Boston Red Sox first baseman/designated hitter Willson Contreras has had his suspension reduced from seven games to five games, and he will be eligible to participate in the All-Star Game.
Contreras had appealed the suspension for his role in a benches-clearing brawl against the Washington Nationals on June 30.
