MLB Rumors: Red Sox reunion, D’Backs hesitate, Reds trade link
By Kristen Wong
MLB Rumors: Diamondbacks not going to be ‘reckless’ at trade deadline
Among the many surprises of the 2023 season, the Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as playoff heavyweights. Their roster pales in comparison to other star-studded ones, yet they have still somehow managed to stay atop the NL West keeping up with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Heading into August, the D’Backs are most certainly buyers. There are, however, two types of buyers: the ones who trade all their gold and go all in, and the ones who make only minor moves and keep trotting along a conservative path.
According to recent sources, Arizona doesn’t plan to be “ultra-aggressive” or “reckless.” The club will be open to trade negotiations with the caveat that every move they make will be a well-thought-out one.
Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen said:
"“We’re going to be willing to make trades, but there’s a difference between being aggressive and being reckless. I don’t think it serves the organization short- or long-term to be reckless. I do think it serves the organization to be aggressive.”"
In terms of roster needs, Arizona will likely scour the league for back-end relief and maybe a veteran starter; the Diamondbacks are anxiously waiting for Merrill Kelly to get back to full health, but in the meantime, acquiring more pitching help can’t hurt.
The D’Backs have seen their offense slow down a bit in the last two weeks and may opt for in-house fixes for their hitting issues, allocating the most resources toward fighting other buyers for reliable pitchers.