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Strider Sweepstakes: Diamondbacks in Three-Team Battle

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 16:02 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Arizona, Georgia, Maryland, UNITED STATES

The Spencer Strider Sweepstakes: A Three-Team Tug-of-War

The Diamondbacks' most pressing need remains in their starting rotation. With Rodriguez in the fold, the team is now turning its attention to Spencer Strider, arguably the most sought-after free agent pitcher in Major League Baseball. Strider's dominance on the mound makes him a game-changer, and Arizona recognizes the immediate impact he could have on their playoff chances. However, they aren't alone in their pursuit. The Atlanta Braves, perennial contenders eager to maintain their championship window, and the Baltimore Orioles, a rising force looking to cement their status as a true contender, are also aggressively vying for Strider's services.

The competition is fierce, and the price tag attached to Strider is expected to be substantial. Arizona's front office, led by General Manager Mike Hazen, faces the daunting task of balancing their desire for a premier pitcher with the financial realities of the current market. Securing Strider could require them to make difficult decisions, potentially sacrificing depth in other areas or parting ways with promising prospects. The team's ability to navigate these complexities will be a defining moment for the franchise.

Corbin Carroll's Recovery: A Cloud Over the Outfield

Beyond the external pressure of the Strider chase, the Diamondbacks' outlook is inextricably linked to the health of outfielder Corbin Carroll. Carroll's late-season hip surgery raised concerns, and his recovery remains a top priority. The team's success in 2026 could very well depend on his ability to regain his previous elite form. Manager Torey Lovullo and the front office are closely monitoring his progress, tempering excitement with caution as Carroll embarks on a rigorous rehabilitation program.

Carroll's absence, or even a reduced performance level, would create a significant void in the Diamondbacks' lineup. It would force other outfielders to step up and demonstrate their capabilities. The team needs to be prepared to adapt and find alternatives should Carroll's return be delayed or if he doesn't immediately return to his pre-injury level. This uncertainty adds another layer of complexity to the team's offseason planning.

Internal Competition: A Double-Edged Sword

The Diamondbacks' offseason isn't just about acquiring talent; it's also about cultivating it. Internal competition is brewing at several key positions, creating a dynamic and, ideally, a beneficial environment. Second and third base feature a mix of veterans and up-and-coming players vying for starting roles, promising a spirited battle for playing time. The bullpen, too, requires scrutiny; the team needs to identify reliable arms who can consistently shorten games and protect late-inning leads. While increased competition can elevate overall performance, it also means tough decisions for Lovullo and the coaching staff.

Key Areas of Focus for the Diamondbacks:

• Pitching: Securing a top-tier starter like Spencer Strider remains the priority, alongside evaluating and developing internal pitching talent.
• Infield: The competition at second and third base will determine the team's offensive versatility and defensive stability.
• Outfield: Carroll's health dictates how the outfield configuration will take shape, forcing others to emerge as crucial contributors.
• Bullpen: Finding consistent relief pitchers is paramount to closing games and protecting leads.

As the 2026 season approaches, the Arizona Diamondbacks face a challenging but potentially rewarding offseason. The pursuit of Spencer Strider, the monitoring of Corbin Carroll's recovery, and the fostering of internal competition will be critical in shaping the team's trajectory and determining their playoff fate.