yahoo
With the offseason underway, the Arizona Diamondbacks face several critical decisions. When asked about the team's biggest priority, James Attwood didn't hesitate: pitching. The Diamondbacks are set to lose several key arms to free agency, including Michael Soroka, Zac Gallen, Kevin Ginkel, A.J. Puk, Jonathan Loáisiga, and Ryan Thompson. The rotation is riddled with question marks, from the health of Ryne Nelson, Eduardo Rodriguez, and Merrill Kelly to the effectiveness of Corbin Burnes. Thus, pitching in general—and starting pitching in particular—tops the list.
Spencer offered a different take, emphasizing the need to avoid a lockout. Meanwhile, 1AZFan1 identified three main areas: bolstering the bullpen, adding another starter, and acquiring a left-handed bat who can also play first base. Among these, 1AZFan1 views adding a starter as the most crucial, given the uncertainty in the current rotation (Burnes, Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt, Kelly, and a question mark in Nelson) and the lack of reliable depth behind them.
At first base, 1AZFan1 suggested that Tim Tawa could be a viable option, citing his 98 wRC+ from July 1 onward (102 wRC+ against righties), which outperformed Freddie Freeman, Josh Naylor, Christian Walker, and Nathaniel Lowe over that stretch. The bullpen, despite losing several arms, was always going to be a patchwork solution.
Makakilo believes the biggest priority is developing the performance of current players, who possess exceptional potential. Ben sees it as a toss-up between the rotation and first base, noting that in 2026, the team ranked 15th in the NL in wins above average (WAA) at first base and left field, and 11th in starting pitching. That ranking included bounceback seasons from Rodriguez and Soroka, which may not be repeated.
Sam Bradfield advocates for a serviceable first baseman/DH, whether that means moving Nolan Arenado to first or pursuing someone like Paul Goldschmidt. When asked for the most optimistic but realistic acquisition, James Attwood pointed to Michael Soroka, who might appreciate the treatment and atmosphere in Arizona and could be obtainable given his injury-marred season. Spencer mentioned the Japanese third baseman Sato, though he may be out of the team's price range. 1AZFan1 also backed Soroka, despite injury concerns. Makakilo and Ben both suggested Ty France, who had a strong defensive season (0.9 dWAR) and a 139 OPS+ in 2026, and could be a medium-long term solution at first base. Sam Bradfield floated Ryan McMahon as a platoon option if Arenado moves to first.
Ketel Marte Trade Rumors
The question of whether Ketel Marte will be traded looms large. James Attwood doubts a trade will happen, as Marte enjoys living in Arizona and reportedly dislikes Florida and Texas, eliminating several teams. Marte's no-trade rights and the need to incentivize him to accept a deal further complicate matters. Spencer sees both sides: the team is better with Marte, but if he's a clubhouse cancer, a fresh start might be best. 1AZFan1 thinks ownership will push for a trade but doesn't believe it's wise given the likely return. Makakilo is optimistic about Marte's performance based on his hard-hit metrics and expects him to stay. Ben also doesn't foresee a trade, as Marte would need to waive his 10-5 rights, and his behavior could improve. Sam Bradfield says it depends on the return.
Budget and Free Agency
On whether owner Ken Kendrick will splurge on an unexpected player, James Attwood says almost certainly not, as the free agent market lacks impact talent outside of Tarik Skubal, and the Diamondbacks aren't in the running for him. Spencer agrees but jokes that if it happens, it'll be bad. 1AZFan1 doubts it, citing Kendrick's past burned splurges and his current budget-trimming stance. Makakilo quips that if he could predict it, it wouldn't be unexpected. Ben suggests Ian Happ as a Kendrick-like signing, though regression and outfield depth are concerns. Sam Bradfield thinks the lockout will make owners cautious.
Coaching Hire: Ben Fritz
The hiring of bullpen coach Ben Fritz drew mixed reactions. James Attwood offered a tepid 'meh,' while Spencer admitted he'd never heard of him but sounded perfect. 1AZFan1 praised Fritz's work with one of baseball's best bullpens and the bonus of weakening a division rival. Makakilo highlighted Fritz's injury prevention skills, citing quotes from Craig Stammen and Jayce Tingler about his ability to read body language and manage workloads. Ben is optimistic but notes Fritz had elite relievers in San Diego. Sam Bradfield called it a good hire, acknowledging the Padres' strong bullpen.
Lockout Predictions
Finally, the panel predicted when the 2027 season might start. James Attwood said sometime in 2028, Spencer guessed July 15, 1AZFan1 predicted May 1, Makakilo suggested July 2 (to add to Fourth of July celebrations), Ben forecast May 30, and Sam Bradfield expected May after both sides lose a month of salary.
Originally reported by yahoo.