
Has this offseason given the Diamondbacks an opportunity to start being competitive again? Here’s a quick look into what to watch for.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a team who are not projected to perform well this season but looks to have a bright future. Here is how they’ve attacked this past offseason and what to look for this Spring Training.
Additions
Andrew Chafin, LHP, one-year deal
Miguel Castro, RHP, one-year deal
Zach Davies, RHP, one-year deal
Evan Longoria, 3B, one-year deal
Scott McGough, RHP, two-year deal
Lourdes Gurriel, OF, trade
Grabriel Moreno, C, trade
Kyle Lewis, OF, trade
Offseason Grade: C
The Diamondbacks had the kind of offseason you’d expect from a team that doesn’t seem concerned with spending money on top players.
Andrew Chafin could be looked at as an underrated signing this off-season. From 2021 – 2022 he pitched 126 innings with just a 2.29 ERA.
The veteran signing of Evan Longoria could be a success if he returns to even a fraction of what he once was. Of course, he will likely only see playing time coming off the bench.
The offseason for the Diamondbacks is nothing short of average. A C grade reflects that very well.
Spring Training
Diamondbacks Prospects
Arizona will have a lot of young talent participating in their Spring Training. They have MLB’s number 2 (Corbin Carroll), 11 (Jordan Lawlar) and 59 (Brandon Pfaadt) ranked prospects all in attendance.
Carroll and Pfaadt both have MLB ETAs of 2023. Both players are looking to have strong Spring Trainings to carry over to the major league level.
Final Rotation Spot
The Diamondbacks’ top four in the starting rotation seem to be solidified. So, who will take the fifth spot?
The fight looks to be between Drey Jameson and Ryne Nelson who both made their MLB debuts last season. Both had very small samples, but each looked good in their limited time.
Jameson posted a 1.48 ERA in 24.1 innings pitched. Nelson had a 1.47 ERA in 18.1 innings pitched. Spring Training is where the spot will most likely be decided.
Projected Opening Day Roster
Lineup and bench
Catcher: Carson Kelly
First base: Christian Walker
Second Base: Ketel Marte
Shortstop: Nick Ahmed
Third Base: Josh Rojas
Left Field: Corbin Carroll
Center Field: Alek Thomas
Right Field: Jake McCarthy
Designated Hitter: Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
Bench: Kyle Lewis, Geraldo Perdomo, Gabriel Moreno, Evan Longoria
Starting Pitchers
1. Zac Gallen
2. Merrill Kelly
3. Madison Bumgarner
4. Zach Davies
5. Ryne Nelson
Bullpen
1. Corbin Martin
2. Kyle Nelson
3. Mark Melancon
4. Miguel Castro
5. Scott McGough
6. Joe Mantiply
7. Kevin Ginkel
8. Andrew Chafin
