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Diamondbacks Eye Alex Bregman in Surprise Free Agency Move
PHOENIX, AZ – Could the Arizona Diamondbacks be in the running for star third baseman Alex Bregman? According to a report by USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the D-backs are “kicking the tires” on the free agent, a move that would signal a significant shift from their previously stated offseason focus on bolstering pitching.
While strengthening the starting rotation and bullpen were believed to be the team’s priorities, Diamondbacks managing general partner Ken Kendrick has a history of increasing the budget when he sees a compelling opportunity to improve the team, exemplified by last year’s signing of Corbin Burnes and Jordan Montgomery.
The team has already brought back Merrill Kelly and signed Michael Soroka, but has also been listening to trade offers for All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte. Marte’s departure could free up payroll space for a potential Bregman signing, but other options include the trade of young prospects for pitching or, sticking with Marte, finding another way to add pitching.
“We are stretching the budget. We have done that before, and it won’t be the last time that we ever do it,” Kendrick stated last year when the team signed Burnes. With a creative front office and an owner who prioritizes winning, the Diamondbacks’ plans remain fluid as the offseason progresses.
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