"The D-backs have bolstered their rotation mix this winter by agreeing to a two-year reunion with Merrill Kelly and bringing Michael Soroka in on a one-year deal, but the bullpen remains largely untouched. Taylor Clarke's low-cost, one-year deal is the only addition of any real note. General manager Mike Hazen emphasized to Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic that he still plans to add to his relief corps, but the focus for much of the winter was on the rotation."
"While that doesn't necessarily mean that the D-backs are lock to trade for an established reliever rather than sign one of the remaining free agent arms, it at least lends some credence to the belief that the trade market is the preferred route. Diamondbacks brass has been candid about the fact that payroll will be reduced in 2026 even as the team keeps aiming to contend."
The Diamondbacks signed Merrill Kelly to a two-year deal and added Michael Soroka on a one-year contract to bolster the starting rotation. The bullpen remains largely unchanged, with Taylor Clarke's low-cost, one-year deal the only notable addition. General manager Mike Hazen stated plans to add to the relief corps and indicated the bullpen market remains active, with trades as a likely avenue. Team leadership expects payroll reduction in 2026 while still aiming to contend. Hazen suggested signing a prominent free-agent reliever would have jeopardized re-signing Kelly. Potential trade targets mentioned include JoJo Romero, Victor Vodnik, Seth Halvorsen, and Trevor Megill.
Read at MLB Trade Rumors
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