As Spring Training approaches, the Diamondbacks find themselves at a pivotal moment in shaping their roster, a sentiment echoed by general manager Mike Hazen and emphasized by team president/CEO Derrick Hall during a recent event.
The team has made some strides in bolstering their bullpen with the acquisitions of free agent Taylor Clarke and Jonathan Loáisiga. However, their activity may not meet the expectations of some fans and analysts alike.
Hazen indicated earlier this week that he anticipates further reinforcements for the bullpen before the camp kicks off on February 10. Hall also hinted that there could be additional moves in the works. "I believe we still have a few adjustments to make," Hall remarked during the team's annual charity golf tournament. "I'm pleased with our progress so far. Retaining Merrill was a significant decision, especially since he expressed a desire to stay, making it a mutually beneficial arrangement. Additionally, the trade for Arenado aligns well with our strategy. We are actively seeking another first baseman to complement our lineup, and there is still room to enhance our pitching staff, both in starting and relief roles. The work isn’t finished yet."
With many top relief pitchers already signed by other teams, the Diamondbacks might consider pursuing a trade to strengthen the backend of their bullpen as they await the recovery of co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez, both of whom are recovering from elbow surgeries. Puk could potentially return before the All-Star break, while Martinez is expected back shortly thereafter.
At the beginning of the offseason, Hazen was open to discussing trades involving players from the team’s prospect pool if a favorable opportunity arose.
Last year, the Diamondbacks recorded an unprecedented Opening Day payroll of approximately $195 million. Hall noted that the team faced financial losses last season, largely due to injuries that sidelined key players like ace Corbin Burnes, Puk, and Martinez, preventing them from making a postseason return. Arizona’s ownership, with managing general partner Ken Kendrick at the helm, has demonstrated a willingness to invest financially and exceed budget constraints when there’s a chance to make a playoff run.
"It was indeed a substantial figure," Hall said, reflecting on the team's financial losses from the past season.
The necessity to trim this year's Opening Day payroll might complicate efforts to make significant acquisitions, such as re-signing free agent right-hander Zac Gallen, who turned down a qualifying offer of $22.025 million. Nevertheless, given the unexpected decisions to sign Jordan Montgomery two years ago and to bring Burnes onboard last season, Kendrick's commitment to winning remains evident, especially considering the Diamondbacks' journey to the World Series in 2023.
"We still have some flexibility in our budget," Hall acknowledged. "However, for a major acquisition, we'll likely need to think outside the box or consider reallocating funds to facilitate a significant move. Ken has always encouraged us to push the limits, which is our guiding principle. Our aim is not to enter a season focused on profits; we’re prepared to break even or incur losses, all in the pursuit of fielding a highly competitive team."
