September Call-Ups: Diamondbacks Activate Ryan Thompson

The Arizona Diamondbacks are squeezing every bit of value from Major League Baseball’s September roster expansion. With the league bumping teams from 26 to 28 players this month, Arizona’s added both a bullpen arm and a speedy, versatile outfielder as they gear up for a crucial series against the Texas Rangers at Chase Field.

Ryan Thompson Returns to fortify the bullpen

The most notable move? Reliever Ryan Thompson is back from the injured list. He’s been sidelined since July 4 with a scapular strain, which interrupted what was shaping up to be a strong season.

A solid stretch before injury

Before the injury, Thompson looked sharp. He strung together seven consecutive scoreless outings, dropping his ERA to 4.45.

Thompson’s knack for getting ground balls and keeping hitters guessing steadied a D-backs bullpen that’s had its ups and downs. After weeks of recovery, he pitched two solid rehab games with Triple-A Reno and seemed fully healthy.

Now, with Thompson back, manager Torey Lovullo gets another late-inning option and more ways to mix and match in tight games.

Jorge Barrosa gets another opportunity

Arizona also recalled Jorge Barrosa for his third big-league stint this year. Barrosa, just 23, is a switch-hitting outfielder who stands out for his defense and speed, plus he’s handy against left-handed pitchers.

Offensive struggles in the majors

Barrosa’s bat hasn’t caught up to his glove in the majors. He enters September with only 4 hits in 36 at-bats—a .111 average—over limited chances so far.

Triple-A success fuels the call-up

Things look brighter for Barrosa in Triple-A Reno. He’s posted a strong .294/.378/.431 slash line, with 7 homers and 10 steals this season.

That production, along with his range and base-stealing, gives Arizona another weapon as they try to outmaneuver opponents this month.

Strategic roster composition for the playoff push

With these moves, the Diamondbacks now carry the maximum 14 pitchers allowed under MLB’s September rules. They’re clearly leaning into extra bullpen depth to handle workloads and face the defending World Series champs, the Texas Rangers.

Additional versatility and defensive stability

Pitching depth matters, but so does flexibility among position players. Barrosa’s defense and speed make him a great late-inning option—whether running, fielding, or hitting in the right spot.

Thompson’s return gives the bullpen a mix of experience and recent effectiveness for those stressful innings late in games.

The road ahead for Arizona

The Diamondbacks hit a pivotal point in their 2024 season. With expanded rosters, they can chase wins without burning out their regulars.

Thompson and Barrosa each bring something the team needs this September:

• Ryan Thompson: Fresh arm for high-leverage bullpen spots, proven results before the injury.
• Jorge Barrosa: Speed and defensive flexibility to tip close games in Arizona’s favor.

Potential impact down the stretch

If Thompson can find his pre-injury groove and Barrosa brings his Triple-A bat to the majors, these moves might give Arizona a little something extra in close games. In September, every tiny advantage starts to matter more than ever.

Arizona looks determined to squeeze every bit of value from their roster for the stretch run. MLB’s September roster expansion lets contenders patch up weak spots, and the Diamondbacks seem to have picked their spots carefully.

They’ve added some pitching depth and defensive options, plus a few guys who can handle specific matchups. It’s not flashy, but maybe that’s exactly what they need to keep their playoff hopes alive.

 
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