CHICAGO— Despite a tough July with an 8-16 record, the Diamondbacks were in a strong enough position to be buyers at last year’s trade deadline. They made several acquisitions, including closer Paul Sewald and outfielder Tommy Pham. However, they didn’t add a starting pitcher, leading to bullpen games in Game 4 of both the NLCS and World Series. Following their World Series loss to the Texas Rangers, GM Mike Hazen expressed regret over not doing more.
“I have a lot of regrets,” Hazen admitted in his November exit interview. “It’s painful to discuss this after losing the World Series, especially feeling responsible for what happened in Game 4.”
Hazen noted that the cost of acquiring a starter last year was steep. While he didn’t regret passing on offers for outfielder Alek Thomas or right-hander Brandon Pfaadt, he wondered if other deals could have been made.
One might expect Hazen to be more aggressive this time, but he believes this year’s team is different. “This team is stronger,” Hazen told PHNX Sports. “The starting pitching relies on health, and if everyone returns, it’s a different dynamic from last year.”
Despite this, Hazen will be active before the July 30 trade deadline. The Diamondbacks are in a three-way tie for the third wild card spot, making them likely buyers. Hazen mentioned bullpen, offense, and starting pitching as areas for improvement.
Priority: Bullpen
Acquiring a bullpen arm is the Diamondbacks’ most probable move. “Everyone needs bullpen help this time of year,” Hazen said. He emphasized the need for depth and wasn’t concerned about the reliever’s handedness, even with Joe Mantiply as the only lefty. Hazen seeks a reliever who can pitch in the seventh inning or later.
Sunday’s loss to the Cubs highlighted the need for another backend bullpen arm. With Sewald, Thompson, and Ginkel unavailable, the Diamondbacks lost in 10 innings after leading 1-0 in the ninth.
Third Base: Still a Need?
Eugenio Suárez’s recent surge has reduced the urgency for infield help. Since June 11, Suárez has improved his stats significantly. Hazen mentioned he is looking for left-handed hitters, though they are hard to find.
Third base remains a question for next season. Suárez has a $15 million club option for 2024 with a $2 million buyout. Despite his improved play, Suárez still has more to prove.
“That would always be a long-term need for us,” Hazen said of third base. “I hope [Jordan] Lawlar or others can step into that role.”
Will the Diamondbacks Add a Starter?
With Jordan Montgomery expected to return from injury and Merrill Kelly and Eduardo Rodriguez progressing, adding a starter seems unlikely. However, if their injured starters have setbacks, Hazen might enter the starting pitching market.
On paper, the Diamondbacks have strong rotation depth if everyone returns. Adding a starter could be a safety net, but Hazen expects the market to be thin and will only pursue it if necessary.
What Might the Diamondbacks Give Up?
With more teams in contention due to the additional wild card spot, fewer are selling off pieces. Hazen expects trade partners to ask for upper-level, major-league-ready talent but prefers trading prospects.
“They’ll probably ask about guys on our team,” Hazen said. “We got asked about Brandon Pfaadt all offseason and last trade deadline. I’m sure it will be similar.”
If the Diamondbacks make moves, they will likely occur close to the deadline. Hazen mentioned over the weekend that trade talks were quiet, but that should change soon.