Three moves for Arizona Diamondbacks this offseason
By David Hill
The Arizona Diamondbacks are not exactly in an enviable spot. Not only did they tie the Orioles for the worst record in the majors, but they are also in what promises to be a brutal division for the next few years. The Dodgers are going to spend whatever it takes to remain in contention, the Giants were the biggest surprise in the game, and the Padres have a talented roster, even if they did underperform.
What are the Diamondbacks to do? They do not have the financial resources to contend with those teams in free agency, with their occasional splash aside. This offseason will be a difficult one as the front office weighs attempting to contend in 2022 against ripping the roster apart and trying to rebuild.
Three moves for Arizona Diamondbacks
In the end, the latter move is probably the best. The Diamondbacks would likely be playing for fourth in the NL West, or third at best if the Padres continue to dramatically underperform. But what can the Diamondbacks do to help themselves moving forward?
Let’s take a look at three moves the Arizona Diamondbacks should make this offseason.
Open a spot for Geraldo Perdomo
There is no question that Geraldo Perdomo is one of the best defensive prospects in the game. With his smooth footwork, excellent glove, and strong throwing arm, he is a lock to stick at short. His defense could be enough to keep him in the starting lineup.
It may well have to be. While the Arizona Diamondbacks prospect was considered to have a solid hit tool, that did not manifest in the minors last season. Although he shook off an atrocious start to the season to post a .238/.357/.359 batting line in his 358 minor league plate appearances, drawing 49 walks with 82 strikeouts, he will need to show more.
It is entirely probable that he can be at least league average with the bat. His excellent speed and solid contact skills could allow him to a be solid bottom of the order option. Considering that Nick Amhed received 473 plate appearances this season, he really does not do be much more than that.
The problem is that Ahmed has two more years on his contract. However, as he was a disaster offensively last year, it is time for some new blood. Maybe the Diamondbacks can get some team to take a chance that he will return to his reasonably solid form, but it is time to see what Perdomo can do.
The only way the Arizona Diamondbacks will contend going forward will be to give their youth a chance. That includes letting Geraldo Perdomo prove himself at the major league level.