Hazen Confirms D-Backs Target Lefty Bat and Bullpen Help Before Deadline

Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen confirmed on MLB Network Radio that Arizona is seeking upgrades at the trade deadline, with a focus on adding a left-handed bat and bullpen depth. Entering the season's midpoint, the D-backs rank last in wRC+ (85) against right-handed pitching and are in the bottom three in batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging percentage in that matchup. Hazen said the team “probably need[s] a little more thump in the lineup, probably a little more power, probably need to get a little more left-handed.”

Arizona’s pitching staff has managed to avoid overusing its bullpen through 64 games. Starters rank fifth in the majors with 357 1/3 innings, while relievers rank second-to-last with just 209 1/3. Despite the low workload, the Diamondbacks have seen inconsistency from some arms. Brandon Pfaadt and Andrew Hoffman, now at Triple-A Reno, have dragged the group’s 4.13 ERA and 3.84 SIERA down from the top relievers.

Paul Sewald, Juan Morillo, Kevin Ginkel, Ryan Thompson, Jonathan Loáisiga, Taylor Clarke, and Brandyn Garcia have thrown 75% of Arizona’s bullpen innings. Together, they have a 2.51 ERA and 3.41 SIERA. Sewald, the team’s primary closer, has a 3.47 ERA and a 15-for-16 save conversion rate.

Still, Hazen sees room for improvement. He said, “I’m sure we’re going to need bullpen, everybody needs bullpen.” The D-backs’ best relievers have question marks, and few can be counted on for high-leverage spots. A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez could return, but both have been sidelined for over a year and aren’t reliable options just yet.

The rotation also presents concerns. Arizona starters are averaging just under 5 2/3 innings per game. Hazen hopes Brandon Pfaadt can get back on track in Reno to avoid a trade. However, Corbin Burnes is expected to miss until September after suffering a teres major strain. Michael Soroka is performing well but hasn’t been a full-time starter since 2019.

Eduardo Rodriguez, Merrill Kelly, Zac Gallen, and Ryne Nelson are expected to eat innings but have combined for a 5.17 ERA and 4.83 SIERA. Rodriguez’s 2.52 ERA is misleading, as his SIERA of 4.57 suggests regression is likely. With these issues in the rotation, a deeper bullpen becomes even more important.

Hazen’s focus remains clear. He wants to bolster the lineup with a left-handed bat and add a reliable arm to the back end of the bullpen. With the trade deadline approaching, the Diamondbacks are expected to make a move before July 30.