Adam Jones should be a top priority for the Arizona Diamondbacks at the 2018 trade deadline. He would bring a veteran presence with playoff experience. He would also help boost their offensive numbers without negatively impacting their defense.
The Baltimore Orioles are in the midst of a dreadful season. Despite being 41.5 games behind the Red Sox for last place in the American League East, they are also 32.0 games behind the Seattle Mariners for second place in the Wild Card race. As they recently decided to trade free-agent-to-be Manny Machado to the Dodgers, it makes sense to another free-agent-to-be, Adam Jones.
Although Jones only has 10 home runs on the season, he has hit 25 or more home runs in seven straight seasons. Jones currently holds a .303 on-base percentage and a .425 slugging percentage. The Diamondbacks currently get a .269 on-base percentage and a .308 slugging percentage from their right fielders this season. This poor output from the right field position is mostly due to the performance of the replacements for Souza while he has been on the disabled list.
Souza recently returned for Arizona on July 5th. In 45 at-bats since returning from his second stint on the disabled list with a right pectoral strain, Souza has 12 hits and 6 walks. During that time, his on-base percentage increased from .235 to .296 on the season and his slugging percentage increased from .174 to .330.
Even though Souza is beginning to produce, it makes sense for the Diamondbacks to acquire additional help in the outfield. Between the injury histories of Souza and Pollock, and the recent news of Jarrod Dyson landing on the disabled list, having Jones around would greatly benefit this Diamondbacks team.
Adam Jones is a 5-time All-Star, a 4-time Gold Glove recipient, and a 1-time silver slugger. He is on the last year of his contract, so he will be a free agent following the season. Jones’ combination of leadership, offense, and defense could help the Diamondbacks overcome the Dodgers in the NL West.