PHOENIX – In sports, few moves blend logic and legacy like the idea of bringing Paul Goldschmidt back to the Arizona Diamondbacks. Though how could Arizona make the reunion come to life?
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Arizona’s Goldschmidt against the Atlanta Braves in the sixth inning on Sep. 6, 2018, at Chase Field in Phoenix, Ariz. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks are knocking on the door of sustained success after their 2023 World Series appearance. They have a young, dynamic roster led by Ketel Marte, Corbin Carroll, Geraldo Perdomo, and Gabriel Moreno, though are lacking a cornerstone veteran presence heading into the 2026 MLB season. That’s where Goldschmidt fits, not just as a symbolic reunion, but as a strategic asset. Since being traded away to the St. Louis Cardinals back in 2018, Goldschmidt has amassed an All-Star selection, a Gold Glove, a Silver Slugger, and a National League MVP. Even at 37, his bat speed, discipline, and defensive instincts remain elite.
Arizona’s Goldschmidt takes the field on March 29, 2018, during the season opener at Chase Field in Phoenix. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
For Arizona, it’s about more than nostalgia. After moving from from Christian Walker after the 2024 season, Arizona pivoted to paying veterans looking for a short term deal. Goldschmidt would immediately fit the bill, help anchor the lineup, raise the floor of the offense, and set the tone in the clubhouse. Arizona fans not only still wear his jersey, but always have the thought of what could have been if he wasn’t traded. His return would unify generations of D-Backs supporters, and offer younger stars a living example of what it means to be a Diamondbacks legend.
Jun 8, 2018; Denver, CO, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (44) celebrates with manager Torey Lovullo (17) after the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
The pitch is simple: Arizona is ready to contend, and Goldy could very well be prepared to come home. Reunions don’t win games, but the right one might just win October. Bringing Goldschmidt back isn’t just a feel-good story for Arizona and their fans, it’s a calculated move that could define the next chapter of Diamondbacks baseball.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Phoenix Suns, and Arizona Cardinals for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
