The Diamondbacks will look to upgrade at multiple positions this offseason, according to azcentral.com’s Nick Piecoro.
General manager Kevin Towers spoke to the media, and identified four positions that the Diamondbacks want to improve. The club will look to acquire a shortstop, a veteran starter, a third baseman and some relievers.
Third base comes as a bit of a surprise, as Towers said he was comfortable with Chris Johnson in September. Johnson hit .286/.321/.503 in 147 plate appearances with the Diamondbacks.
With Daniel Hudson likely to return around the all-star break, Towers will be looking for a veteran pitcher. The only starters with more than a year of experience on the team are Ian Kennedy and Trevor Cahill. If the team does trade for a veteran, there would be a number of players in competition for the final rotation spot. Those players include Tyler Skaggs, Pat Corbin, Josh Collmenter and Trevor Bauer. That issue may work itself out during the offseason, as Towers said a young pitcher could be dealt in order to acquire infield help.
The team will also look to deal outfielders. They want to make room for Adam Eaton, and will free up space to give him an opportunity. With Justin Upton now expected to return, it looks like Chris Young is a good bet to be traded. Kubel could go as well if the team decides that defense is a priority. If Kubel is dealt, Gerardo Parra would assume a full-time role.
Towers was “non-committal” when asked about whether the team would exercise options on catcher Henry Blanco and reliever Matt Lindstrom.
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