PHOENIX — As the Arizona Diamondbacks prepare for another early offseason, questions about the club’s direction have surfaced — specifically, manager Torey Lovullo’s place in the organization.
Sep 6, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo (17) motions for a pitching change during the seventh inning against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Lovullo, whose contract with the D-Backs expires after this season, has emerged as a candidate for the Seattle Mariners’ managerial opening, according to The Seattle Times’ Adam Jude. Seattle is beginning its own search for a replacement for Dan Wilson, who won’t return after the Mariners finished 76-86, one season after coming just one game shy of their first World Series appearance.
That opportunity comes at a pivotal moment in Lovullo’s managerial career.
Sep 16, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Seattle Mariners manager Dan Wilson (6) returns to the dugout after a pitching change during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
“I love Arizona, and the people and the fans are spectacular,” Lovullo said Sunday, according to Arizona Sports’ Alex Weiner. “So the group that I work for is amazing. I love being around them every single day and I don’t want that to change.”
Then came the line that could define his offseason.
“And I wanna win a world championship with this organization,” Lovullo said. “But I wanna be wanted.”
Torey Lovullo answered questions about his future, saying he wants to return. “I want to be wanted.” pic.twitter.com/0ula1ZWvkD
— Alex Weiner (@alexjweiner) September 27, 2026
Lovullo has managed the Diamondbacks since 2017 and is the winningest manager in franchise history, compiling a 750-768 record through 10 seasons. He led Arizona to 93 wins in his first season, earning National League Manager of the Year honors and reaching the NL Division Series.
His most successful season came in 2023, when the D-Backs reached the World Series before falling to the Texas Rangers. Arizona hasn’t returned to the postseason since, missing the playoffs in each of the past three seasons.
The Diamondbacks finished 86-76 this year, two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies for the final NL wild-card spot.
Aug 10, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo (left) celebrates with third baseman Nolan Arenado after hitting a grand slam home run in the first inning against the Colorado Rockies at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Lovullo’s tenure in the Valley has been significant. He has worked alongside general manager Mike Hazen throughout his time in Arizona and signed a three-year extension after the 2023 World Series run. But there had been no discussions about whether another extension was on the table before the conclusion of the 2026 season.
With Seattle’s interest now apparent, there could be a chance Lovullo has coached his final game in Sedona Red. The Mariners have indicated they are seeking a manager with experience, a notable shift after hiring Wilson and Scott Servais, neither of whom had previously managed in the majors.
Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo watches his team from the dugout as they play against the Milwaukee Brewers at Chase Field in Phoenix, on July 3, 2026. Credit: Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Lovullo has made it clear he wants to stay in Arizona, but he also wants to know if Arizona wants him there, too.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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