The Arizona Diamondbacks, a National League Wild Card contender, are gearing up for the MLB trade deadline, which is just over six weeks away. With an uneven season so far, the team is looking to bolster its roster and make a push for the playoffs. General Manager Mike Hazen has made it clear that he's planning to 'buy' at the deadline, aiming to strengthen the team's offensive and pitching capabilities.
One of the team's most pressing needs is a middle-of-the-order bat who can drive in runs, preferably a left-handed hitter. The Diamondbacks have taken a flier on Max Kepler, who has just over a week left on his suspension. However, their current first basemen and center fielders are underperforming, with the team last in MLB in OPS from first basemen and 29th from center fielders and designated hitters. Left-handed hitters are also underperforming, with Corbin Carroll doing much of the heavy lifting.
Hazen acknowledges that the team's offense has struggled this year, but he remains optimistic. He believes that with a little less power, the team has good hitters capable of putting up five to six runs a night. He's confident that once the team starts getting that kind of production, they'll go on a winning streak.
The Diamondbacks are also in need of starting pitching help, with their rotation five deep. Brandon Pfaadt is stretching out in Triple-A Reno, while Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly have had inconsistent seasons. The team's bullpen has been a bright spot, but additional depth is always welcome, especially with the recent setback in A.J. Puk's rehab progression.
One potential addition to the team is Christian Walker, a right-handed hitter who spent 2017-24 in the Valley with the Diamondbacks. Walker has had a rough 2025 season with Houston, but he's been much better this year with an .808 OPS and 18 home runs. He would be an instant upgrade at first base, where rookie LuJames Groover is getting his feet wet, Ildemaro Vargas has not hit since early May, and Pavin Smith struggled since coming off the injured list on June 1.
However, Walker's age (35) and remaining contract ($20 million for one more year) could be a concern. The Diamondbacks would need to work out a trade that alleviates some of the salary. Other potential additions include San Francisco infielder Luis Arraez and Boston outfielder Jarren Duran, both left-handed bats. Arraez can play first base or second base, while Duran got off to a horrible start in April but bounced back in May.
The Diamondbacks are also keeping an eye on Giants first baseman Rafael Devers, who is on the trade block and provides power from the left side. However, his contract is an albatross. Astros superstar Yordan Alvarez, a lefty with two-plus years left under contract, is also a potential target, but the Astros have had no discussions about moving him.
In conclusion, the Diamondbacks are in a position to make some significant moves at the trade deadline. With a clear plan to 'buy', they're aiming to strengthen their offense and pitching, and potentially bring back some familiar faces. The team's success will depend on their ability to identify the right players and make smart moves that fit within their salary constraints.
