Corbin Burnes’ Recovery Hits a Snag

The Arizona Diamondbacks are not expecting to have Corbin Burnes back on the mound anytime soon.

Burnes, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery, has encountered a setback. While undergoing rehab, he developed a shoulder strain and will now need to pause his pitching activities, as reported by manager Tori Lovullo.

Initially, Burnes, aged 31, had undergone surgery last June and was eyeing an August return. However, it now looks like he’ll have to push that back until September.

“It’s certainly unexpected,” Lovullo commented. “We have to navigate this as best as we can. Thankfully, we have talented players who will step in. Our current five starters are doing well, and we hope they continue to thrive.”

Lovullo mentioned that Burnes sensed “a bit of tightness” in his throwing shoulder. An MRI on Monday confirmed the strain, leading to the news that it will take “weeks, not days” before Burnes can resume throwing.

This news is a significant setback for both the Diamondbacks and Burnes, who had signed a hefty six-year, $210 million contract before the last season. Prior to joining Arizona, he was recognized as one of the league’s leading pitchers, earning four All-Star nods and maintaining a 2.94 ERA from 2021 to 2024—ranking fifth among all pitchers who threw over 400 innings during that time.

Burnes had enjoyed a good run with the Diamondbacks in 2025, sporting a 2.66 ERA in 11 appearances before being sidelined.

Even with his absence, the Diamondbacks have managed to hold a 32-28 record as they approach their game on Wednesday, sharing a tie with the Padres in the National League West standings.