Mitch Bratt sent back down to Triple-A, but Max Kepler is now off the restricted list for Arizona Diamondbacks.
Ahead of Thursday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium, the Arizona Diamondbacks announced a series of roster moves. One of them involves pitcher Mitch Bratt, who was sent back down to Triple-A Reno.
Among the other moves included reinstating outfielder Max Kepler after he was on the restricted list. Pitcher Juan Bergos was recalled from Triple-A, outfielder Tim Tawa was sent back down to Reno, and pitcher Ryne Nelson was moved to the 60-day Injured List.
Bratt worked three innings on Wednesday night and showed some signs that he'd be ready to remain up on the MLB level. But, apparently, the Diamondbacks, who are going through some difficult times with their pitching staff, thought moving Bratt back down was the right call.
Wednesday's outing was Bratt's MLB debut, so don't be surprised if he's back up with the Diamondbacks at some point this season.
Nelson is dealing with a strained right elbow issue, so he's going to need additional time to heal from his injury.
According to Spotrac, Kepler "signed a 1-year, $780,000 contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, including $780,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $780,000. In 2026, Kepler will earn a base salary of $780,000, while carrying a total salary of $780,000. Kepler's adjusted salary with the Arizona Diamondbacks is $467,152".
Kepler was put on the restricted list in January 2026 to serve an 80-game suspension for testing positive for Epitrenbolone, which is a banned performance-enhancing substance. When MLB issued its ruling on Kepler, he was a free agent after spending last season with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Now, Kepler will get a chance to contribute as part of the Diamondbacks' lineup going forward in the 2026 MLB season.
Heading into Thursday night's game, the Diamondbacks are 41-39 this season. They sit 2.0 games behind in the National League Wild Card chase. In looking at the NL West Division standings, Arizona is 10.5 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers.
With these moves on Thursday, don't be surprised if there are others coming down the road for the ballclub. Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo is looking to put his best players and pitchers on the field.
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