MLB Hot Stove: Arizona Diamondbacks preview

Pitching

Most of Arizona’s attention this offseason will be focused on the pitching staff. Adding a top-of-the-rotation starter is the top priority for the Diamondbacks, while the bullpen may get an overhaul as well.

While the pitching staff was a weakness as a whole last season, the Diamondbacks have to be happy with the performance of a par of starters. After struggling mightily in his first go-around in the Majors, Ray showed increased velocity and moments of dominance in 2015, posting a 3.52 ERA (3.53 FIP) with 119 strikeouts in 127.2 innings per FanGraphs.

Corbin also showed some signs of progress after missing the entire 2014 season following Tommy John surgery with a 3.60 ERA (3.30 FIP) over 85 innings according to FanGraphs. With Chase Anderson also projected to get a rotation spot next year, the Diamondbacks will have a fairly solid middle of the rotation to build on.

The biggest weakness on the team is the lack of a front-line starting pitcher. By adding one of the top starters from a strong free agent class, the Diamondbacks would enter next season as potential contenders.

Arizona could be in the market for multiple starters, depending on how it feels about a couple of young prospects at the back of the rotation. Archie Bradley could get the spot after his first go-around in the Majors was derailed by injuries, while Braden Shipley is still likely a few months away from being ready for the big leagues.

The bullpen has some strong individual pieces, but could be upgraded even further to cement Arizona’s status as potential contender. Brad Ziegler was excellent when given the chance to close, so the Diamondbacks will likely look for someone to take over the eighth inning role, likely through the trade market.

Next: Potential Targets