ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS ADD VETERAN OUTFIELDER RANDAL GRICHUK TO ROSTER
In a move to bolster their outfield depth, the Arizona Diamondbacks have officially signed Randal Grichuk to a one-year contract worth $2 million. The deal also includes a mutual option for 2025, making it a promising addition for the team as opening day approaches.
Grichuk, a seasoned outfielder, showcased his skills during the 2023 season with a .267 batting average in 118 games for the Angels and Rockies. Hailing from Rosenberg, Texas, he proved his worth by driving in 44 runs and tallying 31 doubles.
Despite a slight decline in RBI numbers, Grichuk’s performance demonstrated that he still possesses a dangerous bat. With 49 extra-base hits, six more than the previous year, his power could become a valuable asset in a platoon role.
Interestingly, Grichuk’s splits revealed a growing disparity last season. He boasted a .244 batting average against right-handers, while his average against left-handers soared to .328, as reported by MLB.Com. This makes him an ideal substitute for any of the Diamondbacks’ starting outfielders who may need a break when facing left-handed pitchers.
The Arizona Diamondbacks wasted no time in making their confidence official, announcing the signing of outfielder Randal Grichuk. The one-year, $2 million contract, along with a $6 million club option in 2025, solidifies the team’s commitment to strengthening their roster.
32-Year-Old Outfielder Returns to NL West, Ready to Thrive Again
In a major move for the Arizona Diamondbacks, the team has signed 32-year-old outfielder Randal Grichuk. This signing brings Grichuk back to the division where he has had the most success, the NL West. During his previous stint with the Colorado Rockies, Grichuk boasted an impressive .308 batting average, which remains his highest total with any team.
With the addition of Grichuk, the Diamondbacks now have a veteran presence in their outfield to complement their young stars. Among these rising stars are outfielders Corbin Carroll and Alex Thomas, both of whom are right-handed batters. While Carroll is expected to receive regular at-bats, Thomas will have to fight for his spot in the lineup.
Arizona has been busy this offseason, making several key acquisitions to bolster their roster. In addition to Grichuk, they have added outfielder Joc Peterson, infielder Eugenio Suarez, and left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez. These new additions, along with the existing talent, should make the Diamondbacks a deeper and more competitive team.
The team’s aggressive approach to improving their roster has come at a cost. The Diamondbacks are projected to have a payroll of $143 million on opening day, a significant increase from last year’s $116.1 million. While most of the roster spots are filled, there is still a possibility for further changes before the start of the season.
Grichuk brings not only power but also valuable postseason experience to the Diamondbacks. Throughout his career, he has played in 15 playoff games, hitting three home runs and recording nine hits. However, he has struggled with strikeouts, accumulating 22 in his limited opportunities.
Unlike his time with the St. Louis Cardinals, Grichuk will not be expected to carry the offensive load for the Diamondbacks. This should relieve some pressure as the team aims to end their championship drought, with their last title coming in 2001.
After winning 84 games last season, the Diamondbacks have shown that they are not content with mediocrity. They have actively surrounded their young stars with veteran talent, making them a formidable team in the highly competitive NL West division, which includes powerhouse teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Even before the team’s roster improvements, MLB.Com’s Will Leitch did not predict that the Diamondbacks would win the World Series before 2028. However, this resilient team has proven time and time again that they will not let others’ expectations define them.
Jamie Gatlin, a dedicated sports reporter, covers Major League Baseball for the tabloid.
According to the Source heavy.com