.jpg)
1 hour ago
2
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a competitive team in the National League and currently sit a half-game back of the third and final Wild Card spot.
It was just three seasons ago when the D-Backs advanced all the way to the World Series as a Wild Card team.
On offense, Arizona is led by All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte and speedy outfielder Corbin Carroll.
ESPN's Jeff Passan wrote Thursday that the pitching staff could use an addition to the bullpen, specifically a pitcher who is capable of racking up strikeouts. Passan tabbed a veteran from the Boston Red Sox as a good fit for the D-Backs.
"Any of the three [A.J. Puk, Justin Martinez, Corbin Burnes] would provide an immediate boost to a pitching staff that could use some punchouts," Passan wrote. "Which is why [Garrett] Whitlock makes the most sense for them: He can close if need be or, at very least, help form a committee with Puk. If the Diamondbacks would prefer a little more left-handedness, [Aroldis] Chapman works, too."
Whitlock's versatility is what could make him a valuable asset for the D-Backs. In 19.2 innings in 2026, the right-hander averages 11.4 strikeouts per nine innings while having allowed just seven earned runs.
MORE: 5 reasons to believe in Jordan Walker's breakout for Cardinals
Boston's season has gone horribly, and the Red Sox will likely offload any expiring contracts. The D-Backs could swoop in when the time is right
Whitlock is playing in the last year of a four-year deal with the AL East club and should be a strong candidate to be dealt despite being on the 15-day IL due to left knee inflammation.
More MLB news:
- Chase Burns becomes first Reds pitcher with elite stat line since 1922
- Tarik Skubal being traded by Tigers would help him in free agency
- Cubs’ cost to trade for Tarik Skubal from Tigers revealed by ex-MLB GM
- Yankees’ Ryan McMahon problem has a $25 million release solution
- Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was genius
English (US)