Diamondbacks Moreno, Smith, Vargas Begin Triple-A Rehab Assignments

The Arizona Diamondbacks are preparing to send three injured players—catcher Gabriel Moreno, first baseman Pavin Smith, and infielder Ildemaro Vargas—on rehab assignments to Triple-A Reno as they continue their recovery processes. Moreno, who suffered a fractured right index finger, and Smith, dealing with an oblique strain, along with Vargas, who has a fractured foot, are expected to rejoin the team during the upcoming homestand starting August 18. Manager Torey Lovullo emphasized the importance of these rehab games to simulate major league conditions and build strength and game readiness before their returns. Moreno is set to resume catching duties, which will influence roster decisions given the current catchers on the roster, including James McCann, Jose Herrera, and Adrian Del Castillo. The Diamondbacks are also monitoring prospect Jordan Lawlar, who is recovering from a hamstring strain and will need to prove his readiness in the minors before promotion. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers are also working on the rehab progress of relief pitchers Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, and Michael Kopech, who are expected to return by the end of August to bolster their bullpen for the stretch run.