Kevin Ginkel

Arizona's bullpen heading into Opening Day consists entirely of right-handed pitchers, and Ginkel and Juan Morillo have been tasked with handling tough left-handed hitters. Ginkel's career splits are nearly identical against both sides (.312 OBP vs. righties, .311 vs. lefties), though in 2025 he was more effective against lefties, posting a 90 OPS+ against them compared to 137 OPS+ when facing right-handed hitters.

Fantasy Impact

The role could see him deployed in high-leverage seventh- or eighth-inning situations, which may limit his save opportunities. Arizona has no set closer, with Ginkel expected to share ninth-inning duties in a committee alongside Paul Sewald and Ryan Thompson.

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo told reporters that he’s not locked into a particular closer to open the 2026 season.

Fantasy Impact

Kevin Ginkel, Paul Sewald and Ryan Thompson are all potential candidates to see save opportunities for Arizona. This will be a situation to monitor over the next month.

Kevin Ginkel threw a bullpen session on Tuesday.

Fantasy Impact

Ginkel missed the end of the 2025 season with a right shoulder strain, but appears healthy entering big league camp after throwing off a mound on Tuesday. He’s expected to handle high-leverage work, especially with A.J. Puk (elbow) not expected back until May and Justin Martinez (elbow) sidelined until August.

The Diamondbacks signed RHP Kevin Ginkel to a one-year, $2.725 million deal to avoid arbitration.

Fantasy Impact

Ginkel was sidelined to end last season with a right shoulder strain. He should remain in a high-leverage role in the Diamondbacks bullpen when he is healthy.

The Diamondbacks transferred Kevin Ginkel to the 60-day injured list.

Fantasy Impact

The move opens a roster spot for Arizona. It remains unclear if Ginkel will pitch again this season.