Arizona Diamondbacks Rumors: 3 hitters expected to be on team's radar, per insider 

Arizona Diamondbacks Rumors: 3 hitters expected to be on team
Arizona Diamondbacks Rumors: 3 hitters expected to be on team's radar, per insider

The Arizona Diamondbacks are actively exploring the free-agent market for right-handed hitters to complement Joc Pederson in a platoon role. MLB analyst Mark Feinsand revealed that the Diamondbacks are specifically in search of a player to pair with Pederson, who, despite being signed as the designated hitter, has historically struggled against same-handed lefty pitching.

#1 - Tommy Phan emerges as possible fit for reunion with Diamondbacks

Feinsand highlighted three potential candidates the Arizona Diamondbacks are considering for this platoon role. The first is Tommy Pham, a familiar face to the Diamondbacks who had been acquired from the New York Mets during the previous summer’s trade deadline.

Pham had a mixed performance with Arizona, batting .241/.304/.415 with a 92 wRC+, showing a notable dip from his earlier contributions with the Mets. Despite his struggles, Pham’s ability to hit lefties reasonably well and cover multiple outfield positions makes him a viable option.

Tommy Pham emerges as a potential candidate after having served the Arizona Diamondbacks during their World Series appearance in 2023.
Tommy Pham emerges as a potential candidate after having served the Arizona Diamondbacks during their World Series appearance in 2023.

#2 - Randal Grichuk

Randal Grichuk is another player on the Diamondbacks’ radar, having displayed a solid performance with a .267/.321/.459 triple-slash and a 100 wRC+ split between the Colorado Rockies and LA Angels last season. Grichuk’s proficiency against left-handed pitching, with a .328/.388/.607 slash, suggests he could be an excellent fit for the platoon role. His defensive skills, particularly in right field, align with the team’s needs.

#3 - Adam Duvall

Adam Duvall, the third option, spent the 2023 season with the Boston Red Sox and exhibited power with a .247/.303/.531 line, including 21 home runs and a 116 wRC+. Duvall, known for his lack of plate discipline, may not be as seamless a fit as the other candidates.

He possesses reverse splits and struggles against lefties, but his ability to play all three outfield positions and his offensive capabilities make him a consideration.

Among the three, Grichuk emerges as a potentially strong fit for the Diamondbacks, given his prowess against left-handed pitchers. However, the team may need to navigate the complexities of Grichuk’s role, potential everyday aspirations, and financial considerations.

Randal Grichuk emerges as the favorite of the three possible right-handed DHs for the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Randal Grichuk emerges as the favorite of the three possible right-handed DHs for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

As the Diamondbacks aim for another deep playoff run, finding a slugger who can exploit left-handed pitching effectively alongside Pederson remains a priority. The impending decision on the right-handed hitter for the platoon role will significantly impact the team’s lineup dynamics and their prospects for the upcoming MLB season.

Click here for 2023 MLB Free Agency Tracker Updates. Follow Sportskeeda for latest news and updates on MLB.

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