The Arizona Diamondbacks are still looking for players to finalize their roster. They need bullpen help, a possible closer, and a right-handed bat. With an excess of outfielders and starting pitchers, they could consider making trades instead of signing free agents.
Diamondbacks Still Looking to Flesh Out Roster
Left-Handed Starter Could Be on the Block
The Diamondbacks have been open to trading left-hander Jordan Montgomery after being called out by owner Ken Kendrick. With so many teams needing a starter, they would like to unload his $22.5 million salary. After winning the World Series with the Texas Rangers, and not getting a long-term deal, he signed with Arizona. It was a one-year contract with a player option. He exercised his option even after having the poorest season of his career.
The finger pointing has begun:
In the aftermath of missing the postseason, Arizona Diamondbacks owner Ken Kendrick blasts the signing of starter Jordan Montgomery to a two-year, $47.5 million contract, blaming himself for making the recommendation to the front office late in…— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) October 1, 2024
Trade Young Pitchers
With a veteran starting staff and their look for an established closer or a right-handed power bat, the Diamondbacks could offer a package deal that could include some of their younger pitchers. Per MLB, right-handers Yilber Diaz and Cristian Mena and left-hander Yu-Min Lin are among the team’s top 15 prospects.
Multiple Outfielders Available
The Diamondbacks are still looking to add players and currently have multiple outfielders they could offer in trade. Back in November, Bob Nightengale reported that Jake McCarthy and Alek Thomas, both lefties, were reported as possible trade candidates. If one of them is traded, the team could fill the spot with Jorge Barrosa, who saw some MLB experience last year.
Power Bat Wanted
Arizona is also looking for a right-handed power bat—and this time around it might not just be a full-time designated hitter. They are looking for someone who can play in the field. The idea is to fill the position on a rotating basis with several players thus allowing the team to keep as many players as possible “fresh” and ready to play.
Last season Joc Pederson was the Diamondbacks’ fulltime DH. He, however, signed with the Rangers. Randal Grichuk was with them last season as well, and played 57 games in the outfield. He is currently still a free agent, so a reunion could still happen.
Established Closer Needed
The organization has also been looking for an established closer. They have been steadfast about seeking out backend relievers with closer experience. They do have several internal options in Kevin Ginkel, Justin Martinez, or A.J. Puk. However, after missing the postseason in 2024—some say due to not having a solid closer—this is a need they would like to resolve for the upcoming season.
Free agents Kenley Jansen, age 37; Craig Kimbrel, age 36; and David Robertson, age 39, are a few established names still available. If the Diamondbacks were interested, however, they would have already reached out. There could be questions regarding whether or not the three right-handers could be as effective as they once were given their current ages. If they do find a team and a trade does happen for an established closer, Arizona just might have to give up some of their pitching prospects.
Willing to Go All In
The D-Backs have shown their willingness to go “all in” for 2025. They already signed right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes and traded for first-baseman Josh Naylor. If they can find the right-handed bat they’re looking for and get their closer situation under control, this team should be able to contend for a playoff spot.
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