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Whitlock's 2021 Season: A Look Back at Potential

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 23rd 2026 at 13:20 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Whitlock's Allure: A Look Back at Potential

To understand the intense interest in Whitlock, one must revisit his standout 2021 season. In that year, Whitlock amassed a remarkable 134 1/3 innings pitched, showcasing impressive durability alongside a stellar 1.96 ERA. This performance underscored his potential as a dominant force, capable of both starting and relieving - a rare and valuable skillset in today's game. The ability to seamlessly transition between roles provides teams with added flexibility and strategic advantage.

However, the narrative isn't solely defined by past successes. Since 2021, Whitlock has battled through a series of health concerns, leading to questions about his current form and potential longevity. The Diamondbacks, along with the Braves and Orioles, are undoubtedly factoring these concerns into their assessments. Any team acquiring him will need to carefully evaluate his physical condition and assess his ability to return to, or at least approach, his previous level of performance.

Diamondbacks' Needs and Whitlock's Fit

The Diamondbacks' interest in Whitlock is driven by a clear need to deepen their starting pitching depth. While their current rotation possesses talent, adding another reliable arm would significantly strengthen the team's chances of competing in a crowded National League West. Whitlock's versatility aligns perfectly with this objective; he could be integrated directly into the starting rotation or provide valuable relief depth, offering manager Gabe Kapler a wider range of strategic options. The team has been actively scouting free agents and trade candidates all offseason.

The Competition: Braves and Orioles Eager for Whitlock's Services

Arizona's pursuit is far from a foregone conclusion. The Atlanta Braves, perennial contenders in the National League, are also keenly interested in acquiring Whitlock. Their deep pockets and consistently competitive roster make them a formidable opponent in any bidding war. Similarly, the Baltimore Orioles, who have rapidly emerged as a force in the American League, see Whitlock as a potential piece to solidify their pitching staff and push for another playoff berth. The Orioles are known for aggressive player aquisition, and have surprised many with their recent success.

The Deciding Factor: Whitlock's Agency

Ultimately, the destination of Garrett Whitlock rests in the hands of the pitcher himself and his agent. While the Diamondbacks, Braves, and Orioles can present compelling cases and negotiate attractive offers, Whitlock's personal preferences - including factors such as location, team culture, and playing time opportunities - will play a significant role in his final decision. The team that can best address these intangible factors alongside a competitive contract offer stands the highest chance of securing his services.

The coming weeks promise to be pivotal as the pursuit of Garrett Whitlock intensifies. The Diamondbacks' ability to overcome the competition from established powerhouses like the Braves and Orioles will be a crucial test for their front office and a significant indicator of their ambition for the 2026 season and beyond.