Diamondbacks could see Spring Training surprise in RHP Grant Holman

PHOENIX — Spring training is underway, but that hasn’t stopped the Arizona Diamondbacks from continuing to add to their pitching staff.

Jun 8, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) throws a pitch against the Baltimore Orioles during the eighth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

The club acquired right-handed reliever Grant Holman off waivers from the Athletics, which to some may seem like just another arm in the bullpen. In reality, the young reliever has the potential to become a dark horse for the Diamondbacks in 2026.

Holman, 25, joins the club at a time when it is trying to find stability on the mound, with several key relievers beginning the regular season on the injured list. With A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez still months away from returning, Holman’s addition could prove vital if he produces during the spring.

May 22, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) is removed from the game by manager Mark Kotsay (7) during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

In two seasons with the Athletics, he posted a modest 4.66 ERA with 33 strikeouts and 18 walks, along with a 1.58 WHIP in 38.2 innings. However, in Triple-A last season, he showed flashes of dominance with 9.1 scoreless innings and nine strikeouts before going down with an injury.

While the numbers may not immediately jump off the stat sheet, it’s his pitch mix that shows promise and suggests he could develop into a reliable reliever down the line.

The new D-Back features four main pitches, including a mid-90s four-seam fastball, an 87 mph splitter, a slider and an occasional sinker. That diverse arsenal separates him from the flame-throwing relievers who have become the trend over the last several years.

May 24, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Grant Holman (67) throws a pitch against the Philadelphia Phillies during the tenth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Lee-Imagn Images

Other young pitchers are also expected to compete for a spot on the Diamondbacks’ Opening Day roster, including Kade Strowd and Andrew Hoffmann. Holman is under club control through 2031, providing Arizona with roster flexibility and long-term optionality.

The storyline surrounding the Diamondbacks has been whether their bullpen can help them reach the postseason without breaking the bank. While payroll commitments have already risen after re-signing several stars, the club appears focused on developing young talent rather than investing heavily in established bullpen arms.

It’s not the route every MLB team chooses, but it’s one Arizona is willing to try — reflecting the different ways teams can construct a bullpen.

The Diamondbacks begin their spring training schedule against the Colorado Rockies on Friday, Feb. 20, at 1:10 p.m.

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Diamondbacks could see Spring Training surprise in RHP Grant Holman

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