The crack of the bat, the roar of the crowd, the smell of fresh-cut grass—baseball is back, and the Arizona Diamondbacks are ready to take the field with a renewed sense of purpose. After a rollercoaster 2024 season that saw them tantalizingly close to a playoff berth, only to be denied by a heartbreaking tiebreaker game, the D-backs are back with a vengeance. They’re not just looking to compete; they’re looking to dominate. With a young core of rising stars like Corbin Carroll and Zac Gallen, a revamped roster featuring some key additions, and a chip on their shoulder the size of a baseball diamond, the Diamondbacks are poised to make a serious run for the playoffs in 2025. So, let’s dive deep into their offseason moves, player projections, potential call-ups, burning questions, upcoming free agents, and must-see games. We also got a interview with Dalton Feely, media personality for Jomboy Media! Get ready for another exciting year of Diamondbacks baseball, because this team is ready to turn heartbreak into triumph.

Offseason Pickups and Losses

The Diamondbacks had a busy offseason, making several key additions and saying goodbye to some familiar faces. Here’s a look at their most significant transactions:  

Key Additions:

• Corbin Burnes (Starting Pitcher): The D-backs made a splash by signing former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes to a multi-year deal. Burnes brings a wealth of experience and a dominant pitching repertoire to the rotation, giving Arizona a legitimate ace to lead their young staff.  
• Josh Naylor (First Baseman): In a move that bolstered their infield, the Diamondbacks acquired Josh Naylor from the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for minor league pitcher Slade Cecconi and a draft pick. Naylor provides a power bat and a solid defensive presence at first base.  
• Randal Grichuk (Outfielder): A familiar face returns to the desert! Randal Grichuk, who played for the Diamondbacks in 2024, rejoins the team after a brief stint in the free agency market. Grichuk adds power and experience to the outfield, and his familiarity with the organization should make for a smooth transition.

Key Departures:

Christian Walker (First Baseman): Walker, a consistent power hitter for the Diamondbacks, departed in free agency and signed with the Houston Astros.

Joc Pederson (DH/Outfielder): Pederson, a power-hitting outfielder, signed a free-agent deal with the Texas Rangers.

Full List of Transactions:

Additions:

• Trey Mancini (1B) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Randal Grichuk (LF) – Signed as Free Agent
• Garrett Hampson (SS) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Josh Winder (RP) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Rene Pinto (C) – Acquired Off Waivers From Baltimore
• Zac Gallen (SP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• A.J. Puk (RP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Geraldo Perdomo (SS) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Kevin Ginkel (RP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Josh Naylor (1B) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Kyle Nelson (RP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Joe Mantiply (RP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Ryan Thompson (RP) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Grae Kessinger (SS) – Traded From Houston (for RHP Matthew Linskey)
• Pavin Smith (RF) – Signed (avoids arbitration)
• Corbin Burnes (SP) – Signed as Free Agent
• Josh Naylor (1B) – Traded From Cleveland (for RHP Slade Cecconi)
• Cristian Pache (LF) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Logan Allen (RP) – Signed to Play in Korea (NC Dinos)
• Ildemaro Vargas (3B) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Jeff Brigham (RP) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Jose Castillo (RP) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Brandon Hughes (RP) – Not Offered Contract and Became Free Agent (non-tendered)
• Joe Elbis (SP) – Purchased From Minors
• Tim Tawa (2B) – Purchased From Minors
• Aramis Garcia (C) – Signed to a Minor League Contract
• Connor Kaiser (SS) – Signed to a Minor League Contract

Departures:

• Joc Pederson (DH) – Declared Free Agency (declined mutual option)
• Christian Walker (1B) – Tendered Qualifying Offer (declined)
• Randal Grichuk (LF) – Declared Free Agency (declined mutual option)
• Josh Bell (1B) – Declared Free Agency
• Paul Sewald (RP) – Declared Free Agency
• Kevin Newman (3B) – Declared Free Agency
• Humberto Castellanos (RP) – Refused Minor League Assignment – Free Agent
• Andrew Knizner (C) – Refused Minor League Assignment – Free Agent
• Scott McGough (RP) – Declared Free Agency (mutual option declined)
• Erich Uelmen (RP) – Declared Free Agency
• Jose Castillo (RP) – Declared Free Agency
• Logan Allen (RP) – Refused Minor League Assignment – Free Agent
• Konnor Pilkington (RP) – Declared Free Agency
• Kyle Garlick (RF) – Declared Free Agency
• Albert Almora (RF) – Declared Free Agency
• Chris Rodriguez (RP) – Declared Free Agency
• Michael Perez (C) – Declared Free Agency

2025 Player Projections & Title Odds

The Diamondbacks are entering the 2025 season with a mix of young talent and veteran experience. Let’s take a look at how their players are projected to perform, based on the latest projections, and what their odds are of making a splash in the postseason.

Hitting Projections:

Name	AVG	OBP	SLG	RBIs	HRs	Hits	SB	WAR
Ketel Marte	.278	.359	.488	69	27	147	8	4.8
Corbin Carroll	.263	.350	.474	68	22	150	68	4.7
Gabriel Moreno	.281	.354	.419	46	9	119	5	3.7
Geraldo Perdomo	.252	.339	.363	48	3	125	14	2.3
Eugenio Suárez	.234	.315	.416	58	12	141	2	2.2
Jake McCarthy	.267	.333	.403	52	6	126	26	2.0
Josh Naylor	.268	.334	.456	61	15	141	7	2.0
Lourdes Gurriel Jr.	.272	.320	.434	55	7	130	5	1.3
Alek Thomas	.257	.310	.422	25	3	63	6	1.1
Jordan Lawlar	.243	.316	.382	24	5	60	28	1.0
Pavin Smith	.248	.336	.411	32	8	81	3	0.6
Randal Grichuk	.256	.307	.425	25	2	60	2	0.4
Adrian Del Castillo	.242	.314	.407	11	1	28	1	0.3
Jose Herrera	.226	.305	.323	7	0	18	1	0.1
Tim Tawa	.232	.291	.375	2	6	6	3	0.0
Jorge Barrosa	.234	.308	.356	0	1	2	0	0.0
René Pinto	.215	.261	.371	0	1	2	0	0.0

Pitching Projections (Starting Pitchers):

Name	ERA	W-L	G/GS	WAR
Corbin Burnes	3.69	12-10	31	3.6
Zac Gallen	3.92	11-9	29	2.6
Brandon Pfaadt	3.97	9-8	35	1.9
Eduardo Rodriguez	4.01	9-8	34	1.8
Merrill Kelly	4.19	9-9	26	1.7
Jordan Montgomery	4.21	7-7	42	0.9
Ryne Nelson	4.17	6-6	58	0.6

Pitching Projections (Relief Pitchers):

Name	ERA	W-L	G	WAR
Justin Martinez	3.11	4-3	68	0.7
A.J. Puk	3.38	4-3	65	0.6
Kevin Ginkel	3.50	3-3	62	0.5
Drey Jameson	3.72	3-2	50	0.3
Ryan Thompson	3.96	3-3	63	0.3
Joe Mantiply	3.79	3-3	59	0.2
Yilber Diaz	4.04	3-3	47	0.2
Kyle Nelson	4.13	1-1	21	0.1
Tommy Henry	3.94	1-1	28	0.1
Andrew Saalfrank	3.85	2-2	35	0.0
Josh Winder	4.30	2-2	32	0.1
Cristian Mena	4.15	1-1	17	0.1
Kyle Amendt	4.03	1-1	22	0.0

Title Odds:

• World Series: +3000
• NL West: +1000
• Make Playoffs: -115

Analysis:

The Diamondbacks’ lineup is projected to be a force to be reckoned with in 2025. Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll are expected to lead the way, with both players projected to have MVP-caliber seasons. The additions of Josh Naylor and Randal Grichuk provide more power and depth to the lineup.

The starting rotation, anchored by Corbin Burnes and Zac Gallen, is also projected to be a strength. Burnes is expected to be a Cy Young contender, while Gallen is a reliable veteran who consistently eats innings. The rest of the rotation, including Brandon Pfaadt, Eduardo Rodriguez, Merrill Kelly, Jordan Montgomery, and Ryne Nelson, provides depth and potential.

The bullpen is a bit more of a question mark, but there are several promising arms, including Justin Martinez, and A.J. Puk. If the bullpen can perform up to expectations, the Diamondbacks could be a legitimate contender in 2025.

The Diamondbacks’ title odds reflect their potential. They’re considered a longshot to win the World Series, but they have a decent chance of making the playoffs and potentially even winning the NL West. If their young players continue to develop and their key additions perform as expected, the Diamondbacks could be a surprise team in 2025.

Potential 2025 Call-Ups

The Diamondbacks have a strong farm system, and several talented prospects could make their MLB debuts in 2025. Here are a few names to keep an eye on:

• Jordan Lawlar (SS): Lawlar, the Diamondbacks’ first-round pick in 2021, is one of the most highly touted prospects in baseball. He’s a dynamic shortstop with a smooth glove, a strong arm, and a knack for hitting. Lawlar’s performance in the minor leagues has been impressive, and he’s knocking on the door of the majors. While it’s still uncertain whether he’ll make the Opening Day roster or start the season in Triple-A, his presence at spring training, taking reps at shortstop while Geraldo Perdomo was at second, suggests that the Diamondbacks are seriously considering him for a major role in 2025. This could potentially shift Ketel Marte to a primary designated hitter role, but that remains to be seen.

Lawlar’s 2024 season was unfortunately hampered by injuries. He suffered a torn ligament in his right thumb during spring training, requiring surgery and causing him to miss several months. After returning, he then suffered a left hamstring strain and subsequent re-injury, further delaying his progress. However, Lawlar is determined to bounce back and show what he can do. He played winter ball in the Dominican Republic for the Tigres del Licey, getting some valuable rehab games under his belt. The Diamondbacks are hoping for a healthy and productive 2025 season for Lawlar, as he could be a key contributor to their future success.

• Tim Tawa (2B/OF): Tawa, a versatile infielder/outfielder, has steadily climbed the ranks of the Diamondbacks’ farm system. He’s a contact hitter with a good eye and the ability to play multiple positions. Tawa’s performance in Double-A last season was particularly impressive, and he could be a valuable addition to the Diamondbacks’ bench in 2025.
• Yu-Min Lin (LHP): Lin, a left-handed pitcher from Taiwan, is the highest-ranked pitching prospect in the Diamondbacks’ system. He’s a polished pitcher with a deceptive delivery and a good mix of pitches. Lin has consistently performed well in the minor leagues, and he’s considered a potential future ace for the Diamondbacks. While it’s unknown whether he’ll be called up in 2025, he’s a name you should know. Lin’s development will be closely watched by the Diamondbacks, and he could be a valuable addition to their pitching staff in the years to come.

These are just a few of the many talented prospects in the Diamondbacks’ system. With a strong core of young players already in the majors and a steady stream of talent coming up through the ranks, the future looks bright for the Diamondbacks.

Biggest Questions for the Diamondbacks

As the Diamondbacks head into the 2025 season, there are several key questions surrounding the team. Here are a few of the biggest ones:

1. Can Corbin Burnes live up to expectations? The Diamondbacks made a big splash by signing Corbin Burnes to a lucrative long-term deal. He’s a former Cy Young winner and a proven ace, but he’s also coming off a slightly down year in 2024. Can Burnes regain his dominant form and anchor the Diamondbacks’ rotation? According to my poll, 22.2% of respondents are “very confident” in the starting pitching staff this season, while 44.4% are “somewhat confident.” This suggests that there’s a good level of confidence in Burnes and the rest of the rotation, but there are still some concerns.
2. Will the young core take the next step? The Diamondbacks have a talented young core of players, including Corbin Carroll, Zac Gallen, and Gabriel Moreno. These players showed flashes of brilliance in 2024, but they’ll need to take the next step in their development if the Diamondbacks want to be serious contenders. Can Carroll become a consistent MVP-caliber player? Can Gallen establish himself as a true ace? Can Moreno solidify his role as the everyday catcher?
3. How will the new additions fit in? The Diamondbacks made several key additions this offseason, including Josh Naylor and Randal Grichuk. How will these players fit into the team’s chemistry and contribute to their success? Will Naylor provide the power bat they need in the middle of the order? Will Grichuk’s veteran presence and experience be a valuable asset? My poll showed that Corbin Burnes was the most popular addition among fans, with 66.7% of respondents saying they were most excited to have him in Arizona. This highlights the high expectations for Burnes and the hope that he can be a difference-maker for the team.
4. Can they keep their key players healthy? Injuries to key players like Ketel Marte and Christian Walker have hampered the Diamondbacks in recent seasons. Can the team keep their core healthy in 2025 and avoid the injury bug that has derailed their playoff hopes in the past?
5. Will they make the playoffs? After a heartbreaking September collapse and a tiebreaker game loss that kept them out of the playoffs in 2024, the Diamondbacks are hungry for a postseason berth. Can they overcome the challenges in their division and secure a spot in the playoffs in 2025? According to my poll, 100% of respondents expect the Diamondbacks to make the playoffs this season. This reflects the optimism surrounding the team, but they’ll need to perform on the field to meet these expectations.
6. Can the bullpen perform up to expectations? The Diamondbacks’ bullpen had some costly blown saves in 2024. Can they improve their performance in 2025 and provide reliable relief for the starting rotation? The poll results show that 44.4% of respondents are “neutral” about the bullpen, while 22.2% are “somewhat concerned.” This indicates that the bullpen is a significant question mark heading into the season.
7. Can Torey Lovullo make the right decisions in close games? Lovullo’s in-game management has been questioned at times, particularly in close games. Can he make the right decisions in 2025 and lead the Diamondbacks to victory in tight contests? The poll results show that 44.4% of respondents are “neutral” about the coaching staff, while 33.3% are “somewhat concerned.” This suggests that there are some doubts about Lovullo’s ability to manage close games effectively.

These are just a few of the many questions surrounding the Diamondbacks as they head into the 2025 season. The answers to these questions will determine whether the Diamondbacks can turn their potential into success and make a serious run for the playoffs.

Fan Feedback: 2025 Expectations + Dalton Feely Interview

To get a pulse on what Diamondbacks fans are thinking heading into the 2025 season, I conducted a poll and asked for their thoughts and predictions. Here are some of the comments they shared:

• “Somewhat of a fresh start ready to see what Burnes, Naylor, and many other new players bring. Hopefully Monty regenerates and gets back to what he really could be as I saw with other teams hopeful to bring in a vet closer in tight situations, and let Justin Martinez develop as a closer. I trust the skipper will get the best out of him, as well as see the new pitching staff. Go dbacks!” – Alex Prieto

This comment highlights the excitement surrounding the Diamondbacks’ new additions and the hope that they can make a significant impact. It also touches on the uncertainty surrounding some of the returning players and the need for them to step up in 2025.

• “I feel like the pitching will definitely be more solid this year, but in contrast we will not have the best offense in baseball. the additions of corbin burnes and drey returning, along with an entire offseason of development for tons of ‘mid’ relievers last year we hopefully can allow less runners to score. on the flip side, the loss of walker and joc will be so difficult to balance out with just adding naylor and resigning randal. overall we should win more games than 89 but won’t be as good offensively” – N/A

This fan raises an interesting point about the potential trade-off between improved pitching and a potentially weaker offense. They acknowledge the gains made in the pitching staff but also express concern about the loss of some key offensive contributors.

• “I thought we had a great offseason. Naylor is about as good of a 1B replacement you can find for CWalk and didn’t mind giving up Slade. Then getting Burnes to help stabilize a somewhat shaky rotation was massive. Should be an exciting season!” – devincooker

It’s clear that this fan is excited about the Diamondbacks’ offseason moves, particularly the additions of Josh Naylor and Corbin Burnes. They believe these additions have addressed some key weaknesses and have the team poised for a successful season.

• “As BuddaBaker on real, I think a somewhat reasonable prediction for the snakes is we win somewhere between 90-95 games, go second in the division, and win 2 total playoff series eventually falling short in 6 games to the Phillies, I’m somewhat concerned about our first base coach and his decision making on when to steal and who’s stealing, I also am always worried about the bullpen I hope JMart can be the closer we all want him to. Lastly CORBIN CARROLL MVP ????????? shoutout Pavin Smith ?” – BuddaBaker

This optimistic fan, channeling their inner Budda Baker, envisions a 90-95 win season for the Diamondbacks. They raise valid concerns about coaching decisions and the bullpen’s consistency but remain confident in Corbin Carroll’s MVP potential and the team’s overall success.”

These comments showcase the diverse range of opinions and expectations among Diamondbacks fans. While there’s a mix of optimism and concern, one thing is clear: D-backs fans are passionate and engaged, and they’re eager to see what the 2025 season holds.

-We also got the chance to catch up with Jomboy Media’s head researcher and media personality, Dalton Feely, a long-time Diamondbacks fan. I wanna thank Dalton for taking the time out of his busy day to answer some of these questions! I really appreciate it!

Make sure to go visit his Twitter and tell him how much you loved his segment in this article ❤

Dalton Feely’s Twitter

Adiram: 

What are your overall impressions of the Diamondbacks’ offseason moves? Which acquisitions or departures do you think will have the biggest impact on the team’s performance in 2025?

Dalton: 

Love that the Dbacks didn’t sit back and watch the Dodgers and Mets spend like crazy. They want to win & ate going for it too! More teams need to be like that

Losing Walker’s defense is going to be crucial 

Gaining Burnes in the rotation plus contract year Gallen + healthy Kelly will be super elite

Adiram: 

As a Diamondbacks fan, what is your favorite memory or moment from following the team?

Dalton: 

Favorite memory of the Dbacks for me: 

2023 WS run

2017 WC game

Wade Miley’s rookie season in 2012

Goldy’s MVP chase in 2013 (should’ve won it)

Aaron Hill’s 2x cycle in like 2 weeks

Tyler Gilbert no hitter was hilarious

Adiram: 

The Diamondbacks have a young core of talented players. Which players are you most excited to watch develop and contribute in 2025

Dalton:

Most excited to see if Jake McCarthy is a legit full time player. Would love to see a 15-20 HR season with 40+ SB’s

Adiram:

The NL West is a very competitive division. How do you see the Diamondbacks stacking up against their rivals, such as the Dodgers and Padres?

Dalton:

Dodgers

Dbacks

Padres

Giants

Rockies

2026 Free Agents

The Diamondbacks have several key players set to become free agents after the 2025 season. These players’ futures with the team will be a major storyline to watch as the season unfolds. Here are the players who could hit the open market after the 2025 season:

• Jordan Montgomery (SP): Montgomery is a solid starting pitcher who could be a valuable asset to many teams. His performance in 2025 will play a big role in determining his market value.
• Josh Naylor (1B): Naylor is in his first season with the Diamondbacks after being acquired in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians. He’s a power-hitting first baseman who could be an attractive option for teams looking to add some pop to their lineup. Will the D-backs have to look for another first baseman in 2026, just like they had to look for Naylor, or will we see a potential long-term deal get worked out?
• Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (LF): Gurriel has an opt-out clause in his contract after the 2025 season. If he has a strong year, he could opt out and test the free-agent market.
• Zac Gallen (SP): Gallen is one of the Diamondbacks’ top pitchers, and he’ll be a highly sought-after free agent if he hits the open market. Will he want to test the market to become an ace for another team, or will he want to stay as the number two starter behind Corbin Burnes and help each other get better?
• Eugenio Suárez (3B): Suárez is a veteran infielder with a solid track record. He could be a valuable addition to a contending team looking for experience and depth.
• Merrill Kelly (SP): Kelly has been a reliable starter for the Diamondbacks, but he’s also entering his age-37 season. His performance in 2025 will likely determine his market value.
• Randal Grichuk (OF): Grichuk has a mutual option in his contract for 2026. If both he and the Diamondbacks decline the option, he’ll become a free agent. Grichuk is returning to Arizona after a stint with the team in 2024, where he provided some huge and clutch moments. Will his performance in 2025 warrant another contract, or will both sides decide to move on?

The Diamondbacks’ decisions on these free agents will have a significant impact on the team’s future. They’ll need to balance their desire to retain key players with their long-term financial commitments and the development of their younger talent.

Notable Games in 2025

The Diamondbacks’ 2025 schedule is filled with exciting matchups and potential turning points. Here are a few games that you won’t want to miss:

• Opening Day (March 28th vs. Chicago Cubs): The Diamondbacks kick off their season at home against the Chicago Cubs. This is always a special game, and it will be even more so this year as fans get their first look at the new-look Diamondbacks, including their new ace, Corbin Burnes, making his debut in a Diamondbacks uniform.
• Burnes vs. the Bronx Bombers (April 1st vs. New York Yankees): Potentially a marquee matchup on Tuesday Night Baseball, with Corbin Burnes facing off against the mighty New York Yankees. This game could be an early test for the Diamondbacks’ new ace and a chance to make a statement against one of the league’s top teams.
• Revenge Tour (April 25th-May 1st): The Diamondbacks will face the two teams that knocked them out of playoff contention in 2024: the Atlanta Braves (at home) and the New York Mets (away). These series will be emotionally charged as the Diamondbacks look to avenge last season’s disappointments.
• First Clash with the Dodgers (May 8th): The Diamondbacks’ first matchup against their division rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers, will be a key early-season test. The Dodgers are always a tough opponent, and this game will give the Diamondbacks a chance to measure themselves against the defending NL West champions.
• Potential Skenes Showdown (May 26th-28th): The Pittsburgh Pirates come to town, and with them, potentially the #1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, Paul Skenes. This series could feature a matchup of two of the game’s most exciting young pitchers: Skenes and Brandon Pfaadt.
• Houston Astros Visit (July 21st-23rd): The defending World Series champion Houston Astros come to Chase Field for a three-game series. This will be a great opportunity for the Diamondbacks to test themselves against one of the best teams in baseball.
• The Gauntlet (September): September has historically been a challenging month for the Diamondbacks, and this year is no exception. They face a gauntlet of tough opponents, including the Rangers, Red Sox, Giants, Twins, Phillies, Dodgers, and Padres. This stretch will undoubtedly make or break the Diamondbacks’ season. Will we see another September collapse, or will the Snakes come out on top? Time will tell.

With a mix of exciting matchups, rivalry games, and crucial tests against top contenders, the Diamondbacks’ 2025 schedule is full of must-see moments. These games will shape the narrative of their season and determine whether they can finally break through and achieve their playoff goals.

Conclusion

The Arizona Diamondbacks are poised for an exciting 2025 season. With a young, dynamic core, key additions to the pitching staff and lineup, and a hunger to prove themselves after last year’s near-miss, the D-backs have the potential to make a serious run for the playoffs. While the losses of Christian Walker and Joc Pederson may seem substantial on paper, the additions of Josh Naylor and the return of Randal Grichuk should keep the Diamondbacks’ offense potent. The pitching staff, if healthy, has the potential to be among the best in the league, led by the newly acquired ace, Corbin Burnes.

As a lifelong Diamondbacks fan, I’m optimistic about the team’s chances in 2025. However, potential doesn’t always translate to results. The Diamondbacks will need to perform consistently, avoid the injury bug, and get key contributions from both veterans and young players to reach their full potential. If they can do that, they have a real shot at not only making the playoffs but also making a deep run into October. Keep an eye on these Diamondbacks, because they’re ready to strike.