Diamondbacks Fielding Increased Interest in Pitching Staff as Free Agent Market Shifts

As the offseason progresses and free agent starters like Blake Snell, Yusei Kikuchi, Frankie Montas, Matthew Boyd, and Kyle Hendricks find new teams, interest in the Arizona Diamondbacks’ pitching rotation has surged. General Manager Mike Hazen told Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic that the market for their arms has "started to pick up." The Diamondbacks currently have six starters on their roster: Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, Eduardo Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt, Ryne Nelson, and Jordan Montgomery.

Of these pitchers, Jordan Montgomery stands out as the most likely trade candidate. Following a challenging 2024 season, Montgomery faced public criticism from owner Ken Kendrick. In October, Kendrick openly regretted signing Montgomery late in the 2023-24 offseason, calling it a "horrible decision" and the "biggest mistake this season from a talent standpoint." Despite the criticism, Montgomery opted into his $22.5 million player option, an understandable decision given his injury-shortened season and career-worst statistics in ERA (6.23), strikeout rate (15.6%), and walk rate (8.3%).

While much attention has been on Montgomery's struggles, Eduardo Rodriguez also underperformed after signing a four-year, $80 million contract with Arizona last offseason. Limited to just 10 starts due to a shoulder strain, Rodriguez pitched 50 innings with a 5.04 ERA and showed diminished velocity on his fastball. Rodriguez is owed $20 million in the upcoming season, $21 million in 2026, and $19 million in 2027, along with a $6 million buyout on a $17 million mutual option for 2028. Given the financial commitment and his recent performance, trading Rodriguez could be even more challenging than moving Montgomery.

​The Diamondbacks’ need to improve their pitching depth and performance remains evident. As the offseason continues, how Arizona manages its roster and navigates trade discussions will be critical for their future competitiveness.