PHOENIX, AZ – As the MLB offseason continues, teams face crucial deadlines to secure their rosters for the upcoming season. One of the most significant moments in this process is the arbitration deadline, where clubs negotiate with eligible players to determine their salaries. The Arizona Diamondbacks have been proactive, finalizing contracts with several key contributors to avoid arbitration hearings.
Understanding Arbitration in Baseball
Arbitration is a process used in Major League Baseball (MLB) to resolve salary disputes between players and teams. It applies to players who have at least three years of service time but less than six, making them eligible for a raise based on their performance while still under team control.
The process begins when the player and team exchange salary figures. If no agreement is reached, both sides present their cases in a hearing before an arbitration panel, which selects one of the proposed salaries. While arbitration provides an opportunity for players to secure higher earnings, it can strain relationships between players and teams due to the adversarial nature of the hearings. As a result, many teams and players prefer to settle contracts before reaching that stage.
The Arizona Diamondbacks recently exemplified this preference, reaching agreements with several players ahead of the arbitration deadline. Here’s a breakdown of the players they settled with and the terms of their deals:
Players Avoiding Arbitration
1. Zac Gallen (Starting Pitcher)
• Contract: $13.5 million for one year
• Significance: Gallen is a cornerstone of the Diamondbacks’ rotation and one of the top pitchers in the league. This deal reflects his critical role on the team.
2. Josh Naylor (First Baseman)
• Contract: $10.9 million for one year
• Significance: Naylor’s consistent offensive production has made him a valuable asset in the Diamondbacks’ lineup.
3. A.J. Puk (Relief Pitcher)
• Contract: $2.95 million for one year
• Significance: Puk has emerged as a reliable bullpen arm, and this deal ensures his role remains secure for the 2025 season.
4. Ryan Thompson (Relief Pitcher)
• Contract: Terms undisclosed
• Significance: Thompson’s role in middle relief is expected to be pivotal in the coming season.
5. Kevin Ginkel (Relief Pitcher)
• Contract: $2.425 million for one year
• Significance: Ginkel was a key contributor to the bullpen, and his deal reflects his growing importance to the team.
6. Joe Mantiply (Relief Pitcher)
• Contract: Terms undisclosed
• Significance: As a dependable left-handed option, Mantiply’s retention strengthens the bullpen.
7. Kyle Nelson (Relief Pitcher)
• Contract: $825,000 for one year
• Significance: Nelson offers versatility and depth to the relief corps, making him a cost-effective option.
8. Geraldo Perdomo (Infielder)
• Contract: $2.55 million for one year
• Significance: Known for his defense and improving bat, Perdomo is a key piece of the infield puzzle.
9. Pavin Smith (First Baseman/Outfielder)
• Contract: $1.5 million for one year
• Significance: Smith’s ability to play multiple positions adds flexibility to the Diamondbacks’ roster.
Implications for the Diamondbacks
By settling with these players, the Diamondbacks avoid the potentially contentious arbitration process and ensure stability across several key positions. The agreements demonstrate the team’s commitment to retaining talent while maintaining financial flexibility.
With these contracts in place, the Diamondbacks can now shift their focus to preparing for the upcoming season, building on their 2024 success and aiming for deeper postseason success in 2025.
