D-Backs GM Mike Hazen explains why club went the DFA route with Alek Thomas

The Diamondbacks fan base was stunned when the club announced the longtime center fielder had been DFA’d. While the move surprised some, others believed it made sense after weeks of inconsistency at the plate.

Thomas struggled to keep his offense consistent with his defense, posting a .181 batting average and a .563 OPS. Over the course of his MLB career, he has shown promise of a breakout, but he has not produced enough to secure an everyday role.

Arizona Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen introduces new starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez during a news conference at Chase Field on Dec. 12, 2023. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK

Rather than sending him back to Triple-A with one option remaining on his contract, Arizona chose the DFA route to expose him to waivers and the possibility another club could claim him. Hazen said the process forces a level of accountability and clarity for both the player and organization.

“If I option you and you’ve gotten no exposure to 29 other teams, you can say that the Diamondbacks are holding me in Triple-A, but some other team would take me,” Hazen said to PHNX Diamondbacks. “That argument gets taken off the table if he gets through waivers.”

Mike Hazen gave his reasons for designating Alek Thomas for assignment instead of using his final minor league option.

He also confirmed the team has received trade interest in Thomas. pic.twitter.com/XjRhx2zc0G

— PHNX Diamondbacks (@PHNX_Dbacks) May 9, 2026

The general manager also confirmed the team has received calls expressing interest in Thomas, who must clear waivers within seven days to remain in Arizona’s organization.

The move hits both the fan base and clubhouse hard because Thomas became one of the organization’s most recognizable homegrown players. Thomas, who made his debut with the Snakes in 2022 after being drafted in 2018, was a former top prospect who worked his way through the system and appeared to be a player who could become a cornerstone.

Jul 10, 2025; San Diego, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder Alek Thomas (5) hits a double during the third inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

He also created some of the franchise’s most iconic moments during Arizona’s 2023 postseason run, including a game-tying two-run homer against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS. They would go on to win the game and series to punch their ticket to the World Series.

Those contributions are what fans will remember most if Thomas’ time in Arizona comes to an end. But as the club battles inconsistency after losing seven of its last eight games, the D-Backs are searching for production rather than nostalgia as they try to climb back into the National League West race.