Carlos Santana signing with Diamondbacks for 17th MLB season

Carlos Santana is headed to the desert. 

The Post’s Jon Heyman reported Tuesday that the veteran slugger and the Diamondbacks were “close to a deal,” although it was “not completely done but progressing toward [a] deal.”

MLB.com reported that he agreed to a one-year, $2 million deal with the team. The Associated Press added that the deal is pending a physical.

The switch-hitter, who turns 40 in April, is expected to split time with the lefty-hitting Pavin Smith at first base with Arizona. 

First baseman Carlos Santana of the Cleveland Guardians hops into his ready stance during the first inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Progressive Field on August 25, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. Getty Images

Santana has spent 16 seasons in the big leagues, debuting back in 2010 with Cleveland. 

He’s built out a long MLB career with his offensive prowess, hitting 335 long balls and leading all active hitters with 1,330 walks. 

But age has appeared to start catching up with him in recent years. 

Last season, Santana struggled at the plate, hitting .219/.308/.325 with 11 home runs in 474 plate appearances during stints with the Guardians and Cubs. 

He has proven to be an excellent fielder at first base even late into his career. 

Since 2016, Santana has ranked second among all first basemen with plus-44 outs above average. 

In 2024, he won the American League Gold Glove at first during his only season with the Twins.

Carlos Santana of the Cleveland Guardians doubles against the Texas Rangers during the second inning at Globe Life Field on August 22, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. Getty Images

The Santana move continues what has been a busy offseason for Arizona. 

Earlier this month, the D-backs acquired eight-time All-Star Nolan Arenado for pitching prospect Jack Martinez.

The franchise also reunited with right-hander Merrill Kelly and signed Michael Soroka to shore up their starting rotation.