© Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
PHOENIX – The Diamondbacks’ 2025 season exposed deep cracks in both their rotation and bullpen, and with high-profile free agents slipping off the board so far this offseason, front-office options to address their pitching problems are running out.
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Sep 18, 2025; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets relief pitcher Edwin Diaz (39) pitches against the San Diego Padres during the ninth inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
With Ryan Helsley singing with the Baltimore Orioles and Devin Williams reportedly signing with the New York Mets, the pool of elite, available arms is rapidly thinning. On the bullpen front, Edwin Díaz remains the top free-agent closer still unsigned. Though his asking price will surely be a high one, Díaz could secure the back end of the bullpen that looked shaky all year.
Sep 27, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres starting pitcher Michael King (34) delivers during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images
After opting out of his deal with the Padres, Michael King, the 30-year-old right-hander, is durable when healthy and could be a piece to replace Zac Gallen in the lineup. King polished off 2025 with a 3.44 ERA and a 5-3 record. What about bringing back Zac Gallen? After a strong career in Arizona, 2025 was a struggle. Still, in the season’s final two months, he pitched with more command and was determined to end his season strong, suggesting maybe a change of scenery or revised pitching plan could revive him.
Sep 26, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
For Arizona fans, this is more than roster management; it’s about whether the D-backs double down on hopeful gambles or pivot to development and youth. If management chases big names like Michael King or Edwin Díaz, price and long-term commitment loom. Arizona’s front office must choose between investing big now in pitching via free agency or trading some of their pieces. The road they pick will shape how the Snakes not just look in the upcoming 2026 MLB season, but for years to come.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
