New York Yankees: Possible Dellin Betances Trade Destinations
By Tim Boyle
Arizona Diamondbacks
One of the major weaknesses the Arizona Diamondbacks faced this season was in the closer’s role. Veteran Fernando Rodney didn’t exactly hold down the fort like he did in his younger days. To make sure they have a better chance next year, it might make sense for the Diamondbacks to target Betances.
The window of winning baseball is closing out in Arizona. Paul Goldschmidt, A.J. Pollock, and others aren’t going to stick around for ever. There’s also a chance they decide to trade Zack Greinke before his contract is through. I doubt they are ready to give up this quickly after winning 93 games in a division with three playoff teams.
Add a lockdown closer to the Diamondbacks in 2017 and the team is nearly complete. Although Betances isn’t exactly Mariano Rivera, he is an improvement on Rodney and many other Diamondbacks relievers.
The best bullpen arm the Diamondbacks had in 2017 was Archie Bradley. It’s doubtful he moves to the closer role. His ability to pitch multiple innings each night makes him far more valuable as a middle reliever with setup opportunities. Betances is capable of doing the same, but maybe it’s time someone starts using him one frame at a time.
Before Betances reaches free agency after the 2019 season, he and his agent will surely like to see what he can do as a closer. Saves equal millions of dollars. The Diamondbacks are one franchise that can hand him plenty in 2018.