PHOENIX – The Arizona Diamondbacks are the definition of a team caught between promise and frustration, though what side will the D-backs end up on when it comes time for the trade deadline?
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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
General manager Mike Hazen sat down with Arizona Sports and summed it up perfectly when he said the club has “left a lot of meat on the bone.” At 42-42, Arizona isn’t buried in the standings, but it also hasn’t played anywhere close to its ceiling. That reality makes the upcoming trade deadline less about acquiring talent and more about determining whether this roster deserves additional investment. Hazen has been vocal that Arizona will be buyers at the deadline, though.
Jun 20, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen (23) reacts after being taken out of the game in the fifth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
The offense has struggled but also gotten the job done at times throughout the season. The bigger issue recently has been a pitching staff that has fallen well short of expectations. Zac Gallen has looked nothing like the ace who once anchored Arizona’s postseason run. Merrill Kelly has also struggled, posting a 5-8 record. Meanwhile, injuries have stripped away valuable depth as Michael Soroka is working back from a strained left glute and Ryne Nelson is sidelined with an elbow injury. Corbin Burnes’ comeback, meanwhile, remains uncertain following another setback in his Tommy John recovery.
Jun 27, 2026; St. Petersburg, Florida, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks short stop Ketel Marte (4) celebrates a home run during the eighth inning against Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Pablo Robles-Imagn Images
Those aren’t just unfortunate circumstances; they’re defining Arizona’s season. For Hazen, buying at the deadline only makes sense if this rotation shows signs of life over the next few weeks. Trading prospects for reinforcements is easier when the foundation is stable. Right now, it isn’t. The encouraging part is that pitching can change quickly. One mechanical adjustment, one confidence-building outing, or one healthy arm returning can reshape an entire rotation. The Diamondbacks don’t necessarily need blockbuster additions. They need their biggest names to pitch like their biggest names. If that happens, Hazen can confidently push his chips toward October. If it doesn’t, Arizona’s trade deadline should become about preserving the future instead of chasing the present.
How can the Diamondbacks fix Zac Gallen’s pitching struggles? – Burn City Sports Phoenix Sports
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
