Fans grow restless as the Diamondbacks’ pitching struggles go on

May 2, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Ryne Nelson (19) delivers a pitch during the first inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images

Several arms have struggled to find consistency. Right-hander Ryne Nelson, who helped anchor the core last year, has shown flashes but remains uneven, while veterans Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly have not been the one-two punch they were in previous years. Michael Soroka, who also started the year on the right foot, recently surrendered eight earned runs in his previous outing.

Left-hander Eduardo Rodríguez has been the Diamondbacks’ most reliable pitcher so far, the only starter with an ERA under 4.00 at 3.03.

Still, for the staff to sport such an inflated ERA overall signals concern, and that concern will only grow if the skid continues.

Apr 29, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez (57)delivers a pitch against the Arizona Diamondbacks in the first inning at American Family Field. Mandatory Credit: Michael McLoone-Imagn Images

The D-Backs have already dropped eight of their last 11 games, erasing early momentum and raising questions about how the starting rotation can return to its previous form.

For the organization, the stakes remain high. Without meaningful improvement from the rotation — and with reinforcements still a long way from returning — Arizona risks falling further behind in the standings. Early-season struggles can be overcome, but sustained pitching success ultimately factors into postseason contention or another postseason miss.

Apr 23, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Michael Soroka (34) throws against the Chicago White Sox in the first inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images

Fans want better, and they expect better — the pressure continues to mount for the Diamondbacks as they look to regain form during their next homestand.

*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*

Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

Is it time for the Diamondbacks to call up Ryan Waldschmidt?