Diamondbacks Activate Zack Littell for Relief Role

The Arizona Diamondbacks have activated Zack Littell, who recently signed a major league contract, to serve in a long relief role. This decision was announced after Littell joined the team over the weekend.

In addition to Littell's activation, the Diamondbacks have also brought back Michael Soroka from a six-week stint on the injured list due to a left glute strain. Soroka is set to pitch against the Colorado Rockies, who will start rookie righty Gabriel Hughes. The Diamondbacks will maintain their current starting rotation, which includes Eduardo Rodriguez, Merrill Kelly, Brandon Pfaadt, and rookie Mitch Bratt.

Littell has transitioned from being a starter for the past three and a half seasons to a relief role. Previously with the Washington Nationals, he struggled last season with an ERA just under 5.00 and a career-low strikeout rate. The Diamondbacks are utilizing him in a low-leverage situation, as he is on a league minimum salary, with the Nationals covering the remainder of his contract after his release.