The Arizona Diamondbacks are gearing up for the 2026 season with a focus on building a robust pitching depth and developing their top offensive prospects into Major League contributors. With 14 pitchers ranked among their Top 30 prospects, the team is prioritizing the acquisition and development of arms, recognizing the importance of diversifying their pitching arsenal. This strategy is particularly crucial given that all six of their top prospects are hitters.
One standout pitcher is David Hagaman, a 6-foot-4 right-hander acquired from the Rangers in the Merrill Kelly trade. Hagaman showed promise in the Arizona Fall League with a plus fastball and curveball, along with an average slider and changeup. His elite extension and promising ride on his four-seamer could improve further as he gains velocity away from surgery. Kohl Drake and Mitch Bratt, both acquired in the same trade, have also enhanced their arsenals since joining the organization, adding a gyro slider and a two-seamer, respectively.
The Diamondbacks are also investing in young pitchers like Dean Livingston, a 19-year-old righty who has added 17 pounds and reached 96-97 mph on the backfields. The team is working to build a pitching identity, with the hiring of Jeremy Bleich as an assistant general manager, and they are optimistic about finding the next arm or arms in the pipeline.
In the infield, Jose Fernandez, a 6-foot-3 shortstop, has impressed with his athleticism and understanding of the game. Fernandez, taken in the Rule 5 Draft, has shown loud contact and power, with 15 of his 18 batted balls in official Spring Training games having exit velocities above 95 mph. He is expected to be a big piece of the D-backs' infield depth more quickly than anticipated.
Additionally, the team is monitoring the progress of Demetrio Crisantes, a 2B/3B who suffered a posterior labral tear in his left shoulder. Crisantes was trending toward becoming a Top 100 prospect before the injury and is expected to push for Double-A to begin 2026, playing second base alongside fellow Top 30 prospects Cristofer Torin and Jansel Luis at shortstop and third.
The Diamondbacks are also addressing the need for a primary center fielder at Triple-A Reno with the development of Waldschmidt, who transitioned well to pro ball offensively and is expected to get significant time in center field this year. The team is confident in his ability to develop defensively, ensuring they have a solid option if Jordan Lawlar falters.
Overall, the Diamondbacks are taking a strategic approach to building their roster, focusing on developing young talent and acquiring players who can fill specific roles. With a mix of experienced acquisitions and promising young prospects, the team is poised to make a strong push in the 2026 season.
