Full Breakdown
Arizona Diamondbacks' Offseason Decisions and Roster Moves
11/19/2025, 6:02:03 PM
Key Roster Changes Ahead of the Rule 5 Draft
The Arizona Diamondbacks are navigating a critical offseason following a disappointing 2025 season that saw them miss the postseason. As part of their preparations, the team added left-handed pitchers Kohl Drake and Mitch Bratt, along with right-hander Dylan Ray and infielder Jose Fernandez, to their 40-man roster. This move was made to protect these players from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft, which allows teams to select unprotected players from other organizations. The deadline for these roster decisions was Tuesday, with the Rule 5 Draft scheduled for December 10, 2025.
To accommodate these additions, the Diamondbacks designated left-hander Tommy Henry for assignment after he underwent Tommy John surgery earlier in the year. Henry, who had shown potential with a 4.15 ERA in 16 starts during the 2023 season, has struggled with injuries, making only 11 appearances in the last two years.
Performance of Newly Added Players
Kohl Drake, a 25-year-old southpaw, was acquired in the trade involving Merrill Kelly. He had a 4.23 ERA with 106 strikeouts in 89.1 innings across 20 minor league games in 2025. Mitch Bratt, 22, also joined the team after the trade and posted a 3.98 ERA in 31.2 innings at Double-A Amarillo. Dylan Ray, 24, has been with the Diamondbacks since being drafted in 2022 and reached Triple-A Reno in 2025, despite a challenging 6.30 ERA in the Pacific Coast League. Jose Fernandez, a 22-year-old infielder, had a solid season in Double-A, hitting .272 with a .775 OPS.
Trade Speculations and Financial Considerations
General Manager Mike Hazen faces pressure to address significant roster gaps, particularly in pitching. Despite expectations of a reduced payroll, Hazen indicated that the team still has some financial flexibility. He stated, “I don’t really feel that way, honestly,” suggesting that while the team may not pursue top-tier free agents, they are not limited to low-cost signings.
Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the potential trade of All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte. While some sources suggest the Diamondbacks are motivated to move him, Hazen characterized a trade as “unlikely,” emphasizing that he is not actively shopping Marte but is open to listening to offers.
Potential Trades and Roster Depth
The Diamondbacks are reportedly considering trading one of their young outfielders, Alek Thomas or Jake McCarthy, to bolster their pitching staff. Both players have shown inconsistency at the plate, and moving one could save the team over $1 million in arbitration costs. This financial strategy could allow the team to reallocate resources to address their bullpen or bench needs.
Celebrating Player Achievements
Despite the offseason challenges, the Diamondbacks celebrated significant achievements, with Ketel Marte named to the All-MLB First Team and Corbin Carroll selected for the All-MLB Second Team. Carroll also announced his participation in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, representing Team USA.
As the Diamondbacks prepare for the upcoming offseason, key decisions regarding player trades, roster adjustments, and financial strategies will shape the team's future direction. The organization aims to leverage its core players, including Carroll and Marte, to return to contention in the 2026 season.
