Dbacks recap and notes

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Wednesday that Kelly (back) will not be ready in time for Opening Day, Alex Weiner of ArizonaSports.com reports.

Tests on Kelly’s back did not reveal any structural damage, but he still feels something in his back when he throws. It’s not clear when he might be ready to pitch in games, but it’s not imminent. Lovullo declined to name a replacement for Kelly for Opening Day, but that assignment could go to Zac Gallen. Kelly’s injury might also open up a rotation spot for Michael Soroka.

Thomas started in center field and went 2-for-4 with a triple, an RBI and a run scored in Tuesday’s spring game against Texas.

Thomas made his third spring appearance and has hits in all three contests. Following injuries to fellow outfielders Corbin Carroll (hand) and Lourdes Gurriel (knee), the plan is to have Thomas get reps at corner outfield, though he’s been used in center field for two of his three games. He’ll get a few more chances in camp before jetting off to Houston for the World Baseball Classic as a member of Team Mexico.

Soroka allowed one run on two hits and one walk while striking out three over two innings in Tuesday’s spring start against the Rangers.

Soroka made his spring debut, throwing 33 pitches (24 strikes). He had a little trouble in the first inning but settled in for a perfect second frame. With six starters in camp with MLB experience, there was talk of Soroka moving to the bullpen, but a recent injury to Merrill Kelly (back) cut into the Diamondbacks‘ surplus in the rotation.

Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Tuesday that Kelly has undergone additional testing on his injured back, including a CT scan, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.

Kelly — who is battling mid-back tightness — has also had an MRI. Lovullo said Monday that Kelly was feeling good, so the additional tests could be a precautionary measure. The Diamondbacks hope to know more about the veteran right-hander’s condition by Wednesday.

Kelly had to be scratched from a scheduled live batting practice session over the weekend due to mid-back tightness. Lovullo noted Monday that Kelly feels good, but there will be more known about his condition after the test results come back. Consider the veteran right-hander day-to-day for the time being.