© Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks continue to be aggressive in their pursuit of pitching and are eyeing a former Atlanta Braves reliever.
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Jun 6, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Pierce Johnson (38) throws a pitch against the San Francisco Giants during the ninth inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, Arizona is targeting reliever Pierce Johnson as a potential seventh or eighth-inning option after Atlanta declined his club option for 2026. While nothing is close to being finalized, the Diamondbacks view him as a valuable bullpen addition.
Johnson had a strong run with the Braves, posting a 3.05 ERA in 59 innings with 59 strikeouts in 2025. He leans heavily on the curveball, which he used extensively in his career. A reliever who mixes pitches rather than relying solely on velocity may be what Arizona needs.
Sep 21, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Atlanta Braves pitcher Pierce Johnson (38) pitches in the sixth inning against the Detroit Tigersat Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Adding the right-hander would bring more veteran presence to a bullpen that needs it. Securing a setup man like Johnson could provide the team with more flexibility in late-game situations.
Johnson isn’t Edwin Díaz, who signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in a bombshell report Tuesday morning, but he could help diversify Arizona’s pitching staff. A proven arm at a reasonable cost is enticing.
Apr 20, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Braves first baseman Matt Olson (28) and relief pitcher Pierce Johnson (38) react after defeating the Minnesota Twins at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
If Johnson can replicate his success from Atlanta, the Diamondbacks could add another valuable piece to address their pitching woes.
Pierce Johnson Nasty Curveball 🤮#BravesCountry pic.twitter.com/fSjMF0EAir
— Eric Yu (@Eric35_Yu) September 1, 2025
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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