PHOENIX – The Arizona Diamondbacks have a rare opportunity and an open window. With a breakout 2023 World Series run led by a young, controllable core including Ketel Marte, Corbin Carroll, and Gabriel Moreno, Arizona’s front office faces a critical offseason question: Do they go all-in on starting pitching now, or risk not having the playoff talent while others in the National League load up?
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Sep 26, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Zac Gallen (23) throws a pitch during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images
The clearest path for the D-Backs? Re-signing familiar faces. Bringing back Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, who are both set to hit free agency, would lock in proven leadership and two talented arms that know what it takes to make it to the World Series. Gallen has Cy Young-level upside when healthy, while Kelly’s consistency has anchored the rotation for years. Although both will come at a premium in a thin market.
Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal throws against Mariners during the first inning of ALDS Game 5 at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025. © Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
If GM Mike Hazen opts to deal, two aces that could fit Arizona’s timeline: Joe Ryan of the Twins and Tarik Skubal from the Tigers. Ryan’s electric fastball and strikeout stuff match Arizona’s defensive strengths, while Skubal, the 2024 American League Cy Young winner, could be the best duo behind Diamondbacks starter Corbin Burnes.
Sep 26, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Minnesota Twins pitcher Joe Ryan (41) throws a pitch during the second inning against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Frustration around short-term rentals and mid-tier signings is growing, and the problems that have plagued pitchers like Jordan Montgomery and Eduardo Rodriguez are obviously something the D-Backs are trying to avoid. Arizona needs more than back-end arms; they need difference-makers. This offseason isn’t about patching holes; it’s about setting a tone. The Diamondbacks aren’t rebuilding anymore. They’re chasing banners. That means smart, aggressive pitching moves, or watching the moment pass them by.
If Arizona stands pat, they may be treading water like they did this season after all the injuries. Although with the right moves, they could lead the new D-Backs era and finally finish what they started in 2023.
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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
