Here’s a bombshell for baseball fans: despite the Arizona Diamondbacks’ repeated claims of financial constraints, owner Ken Kendrick might be gearing up for another bold move in the offseason. But here’s where it gets controversial—could the DBacks really be eyeing free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman after last year’s surprise signing of Corbin Burnes? USA Today’s Bob Nightengale dropped the news on Tuesday, and while the collective-bargaining agreement keeps club officials tight-lipped, insiders hint that “nothing is off the table.”
The Bregman deal, however, isn’t straightforward. It would likely hinge on trading second baseman Ketel Marte first, a risky move that could backfire if not timed perfectly. And this is the part most people miss—Bregman’s ties to the Phoenix area, his representation by Scott Boras, and his family situation mirror Burnes’ circumstances last year. The DBacks’ unique advantage of holding spring training in their home metro area could sweeten the deal, but Bregman, turning 32 in March, might balk at a short-term contract like the three-year, $120 million deal he signed with the Red Sox last offseason.
The financials are tricky. Marte’s contract deferrals lower his luxury-tax value to $14.6 million annually, but Bregman would command at least double that. Yet, the DBacks’ payroll is $17 million lighter than last season, leaving room for creativity. If Bregman joins, Jordan Lawlar, Blaze Alexander, or Tim Tawa could slide into second base, though the sequence of moves feels like a long shot—much like the Burnes signing did a year ago.
Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is Ken Kendrick’s aggressive approach sustainable, or is he risking the team’s long-term stability for short-term gains? Let’s discuss in the comments.
Meanwhile, the Oakland Athletics’ pursuit of shortstop Ha-Seong Kim fell flat when he chose a one-year, $20 million deal with the Braves over their four-year, $48 million offer. Kim, a Boras client, is betting on a stronger market next year after an injury-plagued 2025. The A’s, now left scrambling, may need to address their infield needs via trade, with Brandon Lowe (Rays) and Jeff McNeil (Mets) emerging as potential targets. However, the Rays won’t settle for a lowball offer for Lowe, believing he could be a deadline standout if healthy.
In Seattle, the Mariners are still reeling from losing Jorge Polanco to the Mets and are eyeing both Marte and Brendan Donovan (Cardinals). Donovan’s defensive versatility makes him a better fit, but Marte’s offensive impact—a .887 OPS over three seasons—is hard to ignore. Here’s where it gets interesting: Jerry Dipoto, now the Mariners’ president of baseball operations, is willing to overlook Marte’s clubhouse issues from last season, a move that could spark debate among fans.
Shifting to Colorado, the Rockies are hesitant to trade center fielder Brenton Doyle despite his offensive slump in 2025. With his stellar defense and four years of club control remaining, they’re selling low. Instead, they might deal from their bullpen, where relievers like Victor Vodnik and Seth Halvorsen have drawn interest.
One trend worth noting: American-born pitchers returning from Japan or Korea are in high demand. Foster Griffin (Nationals), Cody Ponce (Blue Jays), and others have cashed in, with Kyle Keller potentially next in line after a strong showing in Japan’s NPB.
As of Tuesday, only 21 of The Athletic’s top 50 free agents had signed, a testament to the slow-burning nature of baseball’s offseason. With nearly every team aiming to improve, trades are harder to finalize, and prospects are more valuable than ever. So, here’s the big question: In this competitive landscape, which teams will make the boldest moves, and which will play it safe? Share your predictions below!
