The Arizona Diamondbacks are gearing up for another season, and it's time to dive into the details. But here's where it gets controversial... The team's performance last year was a rollercoaster, and the front office is making some bold moves to turn things around. Let's take a closer look at the key players and strategies that could make or break their season.
Dollars and Sense
The Diamondbacks are facing a significant luxury tax hit with RHP Corbin Burnes, who will cost them a whopping $32.9 million. However, they're also bringing back some key players like SS Geraldo Perdomo, OF Corbin Carroll, and 2B Ketel Marte, who are expected to make a big impact. The team is also counting on top returning starting pitchers RHP Merrill Kelly, RHP Ryne Nelson, and RHP Brandon Pfaadt to step up and deliver.
Roster Watch
The Diamondbacks have made some strategic additions, including RHP Merrill Kelly, 3B Nolan Arenado, 1B Carlos Santana, and RHP Paul Sewald. They've also acquired RHP Kade Strowd and RHP Taylor Clarke through trades. However, they've also lost some key players like LHP Jalen Beeks, RHP Kendall Graveman, and INF Ildemaro Vargas to free agency.
Keep an Eye On
The Diamondbacks are hoping to avoid the injury bug that plagued them last year, but OF Corbin Carroll has already suffered a hamate bone fracture in spring training. The team is also counting on veterans 3B Nolan Arenado and 1B Carlos Santana to reignite their careers after struggling in recent years. Additionally, RHP Corbin Burnes is out for the start of the season due to an elbow reconstruction, and RHP Justin Martinez and LHP A.J. Puk are also on the sidelines.
Fangraphs Projection
Fangraphs projects the Diamondbacks to finish with 81.4 wins, which would be a significant improvement on their recent performance. However, the team will need to stay healthy and deliver consistent performances to reach this goal. The Diamondbacks are making some bold moves, and it remains to be seen if they can turn things around and make a run at the playoffs.
What do you think? Are the Diamondbacks on the right track, or do they need to make some more changes? Let us know in the comments!
