As disappointing results dim the Arizona Diamondbacks’ postseason hopes, Corbin Burnes’ return from surgery provides a high-stakes foundation to stabilize the rotation.
The Arizona Diamondbacks remain mathematically alive in the postseason race, but their chances of qualifying have become increasingly remote.
Arizona would need a major collapse from the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies or San Diego Padres to reach the postseason.
Missing October would make the 2026 season difficult to describe as anything other than disappointing.
Corbin Carroll, Nolan Arenado and several other Diamondbacks have delivered outstanding performances. Failing to capitalize on those seasons would make the outcome particularly frustrating.
However, Arizona already has one important reason for optimism entering 2027: Corbin Burnes.
What to expect from Burnes
Grant Brisbee from The Athletic identified Burnes as the clearest reason Diamondbacks fans should believe in the team next season. His late return allows him to complete an important stage of his recovery before continuing his preparation during the offseason.
“One reason to believe in next year: Corbin Burnes,” Brisbee wrote.
“Burnes will get that out of the way now and in the offseason, and when he comes back, it’ll be for a team that desperately needs him, which was the plan in the first place.”
Burnes missed an extended period after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He has already returned to the rotation and could again become a major contributor for Arizona next season.
Coming back in September gives the right-hander an opportunity to remove some of the rust under MLB conditions.
Burnes can then spend the MLB offseason refining his mechanics, rebuilding his command and preparing for the 2027 campaign with renewed confidence.
His importance has increased because Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly have regressed significantly.
Burnes has struggled during his first appearances following surgery. He has a 7.84 ERA and 1.55 WHIP in 10.1 innings over three starts this season.
Those results are clearly disappointing, but they should not create excessive concern because they came during his first games back from Tommy John surgery. Burnes is still rebuilding the feel, command and consistency required to perform at his previous level.
If he recovers his form next season, then he could provide the missing piece Arizona needs to mount a stronger postseason pursuit in 2027 than it managed during 2026.
A rotation led by Burnes and Eduardo Rodríguez, with Michael Soroka and Brandon Pfaadt also in consideration, could give the Diamondbacks a strong foundation next year.
Burnes’ value
Burnes brings more than the ability to lead a rotation. His experience allows him to recognize mechanical problems, evaluate difficult outings and make adjustments between starts.
His command is central to his success. Burnes can move pitches through different areas of the strike zone, disrupt timing and prevent hitters from anticipating the same pattern.
Returning from major surgery also requires patience and resilience. Burnes must trust the recovery process without allowing poor early results to force unnecessary changes.
The 2026 season has been a letdown for Arizona, but Burnes can change the direction of its rotation in 2027. His offseason work will determine whether he returns as the dependable frontline starter the Diamondbacks originally planned to build around.
