The Arizona Diamondbacks are at a crossroads, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With just over a month until pitchers and catchers report, the team’s offseason moves feel more like a warm-up than a game-changer. SB Nation Reacts, our fan-driven survey, has been buzzing with opinions from the most passionate MLB enthusiasts, including die-hard D-backs fans. If you haven’t joined the conversation yet, now’s your chance—sign up here to participate in our weekly surveys and make your voice heard.
Yes, the D-backs have made some headlines this offseason, most notably by re-signing Merrill Kelly and bringing in Michael Soroka (though I still catch myself wanting to call him Sorotka—old habits die hard). But here’s where it gets controversial: are these moves enough to turn the team into a serious contender this year? As of now, the answer feels like a hesitant no. Many of the weaknesses that plagued the team last season remain unaddressed, leaving fans wondering if the front office is truly committed to competing in what’s shaping up to be a brutal division.
One silver lining? The second-biggest concern among fans—Ketel Marte’s future—has been resolved, at least for now. No team was willing to meet the sky-high asking price for our star second baseman, so he’s staying put. But here’s the part most people miss: while keeping Marte is a win, it doesn’t necessarily make the team better for 2026. And with that issue off the table, the glaring elephant in the room is undeniable: the bullpen. It’s the runaway leader in fan concerns, grabbing nearly half of all votes, and for good reason. Our relief pitching was arguably the team’s Achilles’ heel in 2025, and so far, there’s been little to no movement to fix it.
The relief market this winter has been a seller’s paradise, with top-tier closers snatched up early. And while GM Mike Hazen has never been one to overspend on saves—a decision I personally applaud—the lack of even mid-tier signings is puzzling. Of the top 20 free-agent relievers, only Seranthony Domínguez remains unsigned. Beyond that, you’re looking at veterans like Justin Wilson (38), Ryan Pressly (37), and David Robertson (41), who might bring experience but also question marks about durability.
But the bullpen isn’t the only headache. Take the outfield, for example. Moving Blaze Alexander there could be a quick fix, but then who steps in at third base? Are we really comfortable relying solely on Jordan Lawlar, a 23-year-old with a career OPS+ of just 33? And what about the Pavin Smith/Tyler Locklear platoon at first base? Here’s where opinions will clash: while some fans despise Smith with a passion, I’m actually okay with the arrangement. But what’s your take? Let’s hear it in the comments.
There’s still time for the front office to turn things around. Remember, at this point last year, relievers like Shelby Miller, John Curtiss, and Jalen Beeks hadn’t been signed—and they ended up contributing nearly three bWAR to the bullpen. As I outlined in my analysis of the current Opening Day roster, it’s hard to imagine the 26 names on that list staying the same by March 26. So, the question remains: what will Mike Hazen do to shore up this team before the season starts? And more importantly, will it be enough to make the D-backs a force to be reckoned with in 2026? Let’s debate it—I’m all ears.
