The Arizona Diamondbacks manager Tory Lovullo announced yesterday that closing pitcher Paul Sewald will begin the 2024 season on the injured list. Sewald has a Grade 2 left oblique strain. Tory Lovullo on the injury: "He's (Sewald) going to miss some time".
This is unfortunate news for the Diamondbacks right before the season begins. The Diamondbacks traded for Paul Sewald at last year's trade deadline and was a huge part of the Diamondbacks making it to the World Series. Paul Sewald has solidified himself as a very good closer.
As mentioned above, Paul Sewald pitched for the Seattle Mariners and Arizona Diamondbacks in 2023. All year, Sewald was consistently good. Last year in 65 appearances, Sewald had a record of 3-2, 3.12 ERA, 80 K's, 34 saves, and a 1.15 WHIP.
Here is Paul Sewald on his injury and missing Opening Day:
"To miss so many days is gonna be disappointing. But it's better than maybe in the middle of the season or in September. I guess that's how I'm trying to look at it. I'm going to do everything I can to be back as quick as possible."
The Diamondbacks being without Paul Sewald to begin the season is not good at all. Paul Sewald makes the Diamondbacks bullpen so good. Especially the backend of the bullpen. Anytime the Diamondbacks have a lead going into the 9th inning with a lead and with a closer like Paul Sewald they feel really good.