UPDATE: The Arizona Diamondbacks are actively seeking trades as the July 31 trade deadline approaches. General Manager Mike Hazen stated, “Any outcome is on the table,” signaling a possible shakeup for the team.
Hazen emphasized the urgency to improve the team’s performance, stating, “I want to see this team continue to play and continue to fight.” The Diamondbacks have already executed two significant trades, including sending first baseman Josh Naylor to the Seattle Mariners for promising pitching prospects Brandyn Garcia and Ashton Izzi. Garcia is expected to join the D-backs bullpen immediately.
Additionally, designated hitter Randal Grichuk has been traded to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for right-handed reliever Andrew Hoffmann. Hazen expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of the team, stating, “This is not the position I anticipated us being in. It’s not a very comfortable position to be in. Nobody’s happy we’re in this position.”
Looking ahead, the Diamondbacks may consider trading key players, including starting pitchers Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, as well as third baseman Eugenio Suarez, all of whom are set to become free agents after this season. Hazen has opened the door for discussions, stating, “I’m open-minded to a number of different things.”
A critical point of discussion involves younger players under contract, such as Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll. Hazen revealed that trade talks frequently revolve around this younger core, saying, “The contract guys are definitely taking up the majority, if not all, of our attention.” He noted, “If I say, ‘Depends on what you’re talking about. It would be a haul,’ that usually shuts the conversations down pretty quickly.”
As the trade deadline nears, the focus on team dynamics intensifies. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see how the Diamondbacks navigate this pivotal moment. With the potential for more trades looming, the next few days will be crucial for the franchise’s future.
Stay tuned for updates as the situation develops. The Diamondbacks have a challenging road ahead, but Hazen’s commitment to finding the best long-term solutions is clear. The urgency of this trade deadline could reshape the team’s trajectory as they aim to compete in a competitive league.