Diamondbacks Sign Joe Ross, Oscar Mercado to Minor League Deals

The Arizona Diamondbacks have added two veteran depth pieces on minor-league contracts with invites to big-league spring training. They’re hoping to bolster roster flexibility as they head toward the 2026 season.

The signings of right-hander Joe Ross and outfielder Oscar Mercado bring experienced options to a camp already crowded with non-roster players. That could shake up both the pitching staff and the outfield trio in Arizona’s plans.

Diamondbacks bring in Joe Ross and Oscar Mercado on minor-league contracts

The Diamondbacks announced the two signings to minor-league deals that include invitations to spring camp. It’s a cautious but potentially useful way to add depth for 2026.

Ross, a Wasserman client, landed in Philadelphia last offseason on a one-year, $4 million deal after a 2024 rebound (1.67 ERA in 27 innings) following Tommy John surgery. In 2025, he struggled with the Phillies, posting a 5.12 ERA over 51 innings, with a 17.1% strikeout rate and 7.9% walk rate.

He was released in late August and spent some time in the Cubs’ minor-league system but didn’t get a big-league call-up. Mercado, represented by Excel Sports Management, last appeared in the majors in 2023 with the Cardinals and has totaled 491 plate appearances since 2020, hitting .206/.262/.334.

Arizona already has a sizable group of pitchers in camp on non-roster deals, so Ross faces long odds to earn an Opening Day roster spot. Still, his ability to work as a swingman or multi-inning reliever might keep him in the mix if he shows something in spring action.

Joe Ross: a swingman option with long-relief potential

Ross comes in with the profile of a pitcher who can cover multiple roles if needed. The D-backs want to see his command, health, and pitch mix in camp, with Triple-A Reno as a possible fallback if the big-league path is blocked.

His track record makes him a tempting audition for a team that needs bullpen depth and spot-start flexibility. Durability could matter a lot for several rotation options this season, and Ross might sneak onto the radar if things break his way.

Oscar Mercado: outfield depth and backup options

Mercado is mostly a corner outfielder, but he’s played some center. His last big-league appearance was in 2023 with the Cardinals, and since 2020 he’s put up a .206/.262/.334 line over 491 plate appearances.

That strong rookie year with Cleveland in 2019 still stands as his high water mark. Since being outrighted by St. Louis in July 2023, Mercado has bounced through the Dodgers, Tigers, Padres, and Phillies organizations, hoping to find his way back to the majors.

In Arizona, Mercado’s deal is mainly about boosting Triple-A depth and providing insurance on the outfield depth chart while Corbin Carroll recovers from hamate surgery. Mercado’s experience in center could give him a shot at a backup role if he stands out in camp.

The move fits the D-backs’ approach of adding versatile, cost-controlled depth to handle early-season needs and whatever injuries pop up. It’s not flashy, but it’s the kind of thing that can matter over a long season.

Outfield depth and Opening Day considerations

Carroll’s injury leaves a gap in the outfield. The two signings aim to patch that up, at least for now, by bringing in pro-ready players who can jump in during spring training or at Triple-A if it comes to that.

The plan? Competition and development. The coaching staff gets more choices as they sort out the roster for Opening Day.

• Triple-A depth: These additions give the club a safety net at Reno. If someone gets hurt or a younger player forces his way up, they’ve got options.
• Spring training competition: Both veterans are going to fight for spots in camp. That’s going to make things interesting for the non-roster invitees and the internal prospects, who’ll have to keep up.
• Low-risk, high-reward intent: Arizona’s front office is adding players with legit big-league experience, but without tying up a lot of money. They’re keeping their options open for tweaks later in the year.

The Diamondbacks’ moves to sign Joe Ross and Oscar Mercado on minor-league deals with spring invites show a cautious, low-risk approach. They’re just trying to shore up depth while Corbin Carroll works his way back, and maybe build a stronger pipeline through the farm system.

 
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