Davies threw two innings in a simulated game Thursday, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports.
The Diamondbacks inked Davies earlier in the week, and the right-hander is a frontrunner for the final spot in the rotation, provided he can build up his innings and pitch count by the first week of the season. He had a career-worst year with the Cubs in 2021, posting a 5.78 ERA and 1.52 K/BB over 32 starts while also tying for the NL lead in walks (75). His prior track record, which included a 3.79 ERA (114 ERA+) across six seasons, is what Arizona found attractive. The Diamondbacks appear to have their first four rotation slots set, but Zac Gallen (shoulder) might not be ready for Opening Day. Davies joins a long list of candidates in the mix for the fifth starter job and covering whatever time Gallen needs to get ready. Tyler Gilbert, Taylor Widener, Caleb Smith, Corbin Martin, Dan Straily and Humberto Castellanos are also being considered.