Diamondbacks Target First Base, Bolster Pitching Staff This Offseason

This article takes a closer look at the Arizona Diamondbacks’ ongoing scramble to strengthen their roster as Spring Training creeps closer. The focus? More pitching and a right-handed first baseman.

You’ll get a peek into the minds of team president Derrick Hall and GM Mike Hazen here. They’re weighing tough choices and trying to land impact players without gutting their core, all while keeping an eye on the budget.

The Diamondbacks’ Persistent Pursuit of Reinforcements

Spring Training is just about here, and the D-backs’ front office isn’t slowing down. Derrick Hall, who’s been steering the ship for years, says they’re still looking to beef up the roster.

Even with the season almost upon us, Hall insists the team’s not done yet. There are still a couple of areas he wants to see improved.

Strategic Targets: Pitching and a Power Bat

The main focus right now? Shoring up the pitching staff and adding a right-handed bat at first base. They want someone who can balance out the lineup and give lefty Pavin Smith some help.

Going after these specific needs shows they’re not just making moves for the sake of it. They’re targeting weak spots to give themselves a real shot this season.

Navigating Financial Realities in the Offseason

Money talks, especially in today’s MLB. The Diamondbacks know it as well as anyone.

They want to make a splash, but Hazen and Hall are threading the needle with payroll. It’s all about staying competitive without overspending.

The Conundrum of High-Leverage Relievers

Mike Hazen didn’t sugarcoat it—landing top relievers in free agency is tough. Those guys get paid, and the price tags are often sky-high.

Hall says there’s a bit of wiggle room in the budget, but not a ton. If they want to pull off a big move, they’ll have to get creative or move some money around.

Evaluating Potential In-House and External Avenues

The Diamondbacks are looking everywhere for solutions. They’re weighing internal options and scouring the free agent and trade markets.

It’s a balancing act. They want to fix immediate needs, but not at the expense of the team’s future.

The Zac Gallen Equation and Core Asset Protection

Zac Gallen’s situation is tricky. Bringing him back would make the rotation better, but it’d stretch the payroll, especially after Merrill Kelly’s new deal.

One thing’s clear—they’re not moving core guys like Ketel Marte, Corbin Carroll, and Geraldo Perdomo. Same goes for Brandon Pfaadt, who just signed a long-term extension. The plan is to build around these players, not break things apart.

Unlikely Trade Chips and Affordable First Base Options

Trading Corbin Burnes during his Tommy John rehab isn’t happening. They’re sticking with him and hoping he comes back strong.

It’s also unlikely anyone’s taking on big contracts like Eduardo Rodriguez or Lourdes Gurriel Jr. right now. That makes moving high-salary veterans a tough sell.

At first base, Hazen’s looking for bargains in free agency. There are still plenty of right-handed bats out there—*Paul Goldschmidt*, Rhys Hoskins, Wilmer Flores, Ty France, Carlos Santana, Justin Turner. It’s a practical approach, filling a hole without blowing up the payroll.

Trade Potentials for Bullpen Help

High-leverage free agent relievers are mostly out of reach right now. Hazen hinted the team might look for bullpen help through trades instead.

This whole approach really depends on how A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez recover from their injuries. If both arms get back to full health, it could open up some interesting trade options.

It feels like the Diamondbacks aren’t just sitting back. They’re chasing upgrades but keeping a close eye on the budget, which is honestly pretty smart in this market.
 
Here is the source article for this story: D-Backs Continuing To Pursue First Base, Pitching Help