As spring training approaches, Arizona Diamondbacks executives indicate the team plans further roster enhancements. General manager Mike Hazen and president Derrick Hall emphasized ongoing efforts to bolster pitching and other areas. Despite recent signings, more moves are anticipated before camp opens on February 10.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are on the verge of spring training but remain active in reshaping their roster, according to statements from key team leaders. General manager Mike Hazen noted last week that additional bullpen reinforcements are expected before camp begins on February 10. This sentiment was echoed by team president and CEO Derrick Hall during the club's annual charity golf tournament on Friday morning.
Hall expressed satisfaction with recent acquisitions while signaling more activity ahead. The Diamondbacks have already secured right-handers Michael Soroka on a one-year, $7.5 million deal and Merrill Kelly on a two-year, $40 million contract to strengthen their rotation. They also traded for veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado and added bullpen arms Taylor Clarke and Jonathan Loáisiga as free agents.
"I think we still have a few moves to make," Hall said. "I'm happy with what we've done so far. Bringing Merrill back was a strong move, and he wanted to be here as well, so that's a perfect fit for both us. And then the trade for Arenado, I think, made a lot of sense for us."
The team is seeking a complementary first baseman and aims to improve both starting and relief pitching. With many top relievers off the free-agent market, a trade may be necessary to bolster the bullpen's backend until co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez recover from elbow surgeries. Puk is projected to return before the All-Star break, with Martinez following soon after.
Last season's club-record $195 million Opening Day payroll contributed to financial losses, exacerbated by injuries to ace Corbin Burnes, Puk, and Martinez, which derailed postseason hopes. Ownership, led by managing general partner Ken Kendrick, has demonstrated willingness to invest aggressively for contention, as seen in the 2023 World Series run. However, reducing payroll this year may require creative maneuvers for major additions, such as pursuing free agent Zac Gallen, who rejected a $22.025 million qualifying offer.
"We still have some room [in the budget]," Hall added. "But for a big splash, we're probably going to have to get creative, or look to move money if we're going to do something really big. Ken's always been great in saying, ‘Let's push the envelope’, and that's what we do."
Hazen has indicated openness to trading top prospects for the right deal, underscoring the team's commitment to fielding a competitive squad despite budgetary constraints.