© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks continue to explore options to solidify the right corner of their infield and are eyeing a veteran first baseman who could fill the role.
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The Diamondbacks do have interest in free agent 1B Carlos Santana. It is not close as of this post and Arizona is still talking to other free agent 1B. They love Santana’s clubhouse leadership and defense and he could have a positive impact on Ketel Marte. He will be 40 years old…
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) February 1, 2026
According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, Arizona has emerged as an interested party in Carlos Santana, who previously played with the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago Cubs during the 2025 season.
Sep 19, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Carlos Santana (41) throws to first to get Cincinnati Reds outfielder Noelvi Marte (not pictured) out in the third inning at Great American Ball Park. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Santana is a switch-hitting first baseman with more than a decade of MLB experience and represents a familiar blueprint the Diamondbacks have followed in recent years. Blending veteran additions with young, homegrown talent has fueled the club’s rise in the National League.
While there is no report of a deal being imminent, Arizona’s interest reflects a broader strategy focused on adding clubhouse leadership alongside consistent, professional at-bats.
Aug 25, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Guardians first baseman Carlos Santana (41) fields a ground ball in the third inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images
In 2025, Santana posted a .219 batting average with 11 home runs and 54 RBIs. While those numbers aren’t eye-popping, his ability to work counts and his defensive dependability could entice the Diamondbacks to view him as a steady option at first base.
As the NL West continues to stack talent across the division, Arizona is looking for ways to remain competitive. The addition of Santana could provide stability at a position that has lacked consistency.
Aug 19, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Guardians first baseman Carlos Santana hits an RBI single in the fourth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Whether or not Santana ultimately lands in the desert, it’s clear the Diamondbacks are serious about addressing first base and continuing the roster-building approach that has defined their recent years.
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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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