Diamondbacks to Pursue Left-Handed Hitters This Offseason
The team aims to bolster its roster with new bats while addressing pitching staff needs following the 2026 season.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Baseball
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The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to prioritize the acquisition of left-handed hitters for designated hitter and first base roles this offseason. This strategic push follows struggles against right-handed pitching during the 2026 season.
Why it matters
Improving performance against right-handed pitching is a central focus for the Diamondbacks to remain competitive in the coming year. Additionally, the team is managing the health status of pitcher Corbin Burnes, who experienced shoulder inflammation late in the season.
Corbin Burnes recorded 3 starts with diminished velocity after returning to the mound in September. The Diamondbacks are now evaluating trade market options to address offensive shortcomings noted during the 2026 season.
The players
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a Major League Baseball team based in Phoenix that competes in the National League West division.
Corbin Burnes
Corbin Burnes is a professional pitcher known for his high strikeout rates and previous Cy Young Award-winning performance.
Brian Kaplan
Brian Kaplan is a former pitching coach for the organization whose contract was not renewed following the 2026 season.
The details
Management is currently reaching out to teams eliminated from the postseason to gauge availability for left-handed talent. While the front office parts ways with pitching coach Brian Kaplan, the remainder of the coaching staff is expected to return to the dugout.
Timeline
The 2026 season concluded.
Corbin Burnes returned to the big leagues in September 2026.
Corbin Burnes begins his offseason throwing program in November 2026.
General Manager meetings occur in Las Vegas from November 9-12, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The upcoming moves follow the format set by the MLB General Manager meetings, which serve as the primary catalyst for league-wide roster reconfiguration. This pivot highlights the Diamondbacks efforts to realign their lineup composition for the 2027 campaign.
Fans can anticipate a shift in the lineup configuration as the front office targets left-handed options for the DH and first base spots. Roster decisions made during the November meetings will determine the primary defensive alignment for the start of the 2027 season.
The takeaway
The team remains focused on stabilizing its pitching rotation while aggressively seeking offensive upgrades. A successful offseason strategy will hinge on how effectively the front office identifies trade partners to address specific lineup deficiencies.
What happens next
The General Manager meetings are scheduled to occur in Las Vegas from November 9-12, 2026, where the team will further assess potential additions.
Further reading
For more on roster shifts, visit the Baseball section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MLB.
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