Imagine a powerhouse lineup for the Arizona Diamondbacks, a team that's making some bold moves! The recent acquisition of Nolan Arenado has sparked an intriguing possibility: a reunion with Paul Goldschmidt.
John Gambadoro, a trusted voice in Arizona sports, reported that the Arenado trade doesn't rule out Goldschmidt's return. In fact, it could be a game-changer!
But here's where it gets controversial... Arenado and Goldschmidt, once teammates in St. Louis and on Team USA, have a special bond. MLB.com's John Denton described them as 'inseparable' in 2023, with Arenado praising Goldschmidt as the smartest baseball player he's ever played with.
Steve Gilbert of MLB.com shared that Goldschmidt texted his approval of the Arenado move. Could this be a sign of things to come?
The Diamondbacks traded pitching prospect Jack Martinez to St. Louis for Arenado, a move that brings a strong defender and veteran leader to third base. With Arizona only responsible for $5 million of Arenado's contract in 2026, there's flexibility to consider other additions.
General Manager Mike Hazen hinted at further lineup changes, saying, 'We'll continue to look at the offense and the lineup... I'm trying to build out as much competition as I can early in the year.'
And this is the part most people miss... Goldschmidt, despite no longer being a star at a star cost, could be a valuable addition. At 37, he could excel as a platoon option against left-handed pitching. His .336 batting average and .981 OPS against southpaws last season as a Yankee speaks volumes.
Goldschmidt could slide into Arizona's lineup, platooning with Pavin Smith at first base or filling in at designated hitter. With Tyler Locklear recovering from shoulder and elbow surgeries, and the utility players Ildemaro Vargas and Tim Tawa filling in admirably, Goldschmidt's experience and leadership could be a game-changer.
Let's envision a potential lineup with Goldschmidt involved:
C: Gabriel Moreno, James McCann
1B: Pavin Smith, Paul Goldschmidt
2B: Ketel Marte
3B: Nolan Arenado
SS: Geraldo Perdomo
OF: Corbin Carroll, Alek Thomas
UTL: Blaze Alexander, Jordan Lawlar
This leaves room for other talented players like Adrian Del Castillo, Tyler Locklear (when healthy), and several promising prospects.
The fit is clear for the Opening Day roster, but injuries can create opportunities. The Diamondbacks have a projected payroll of $170 million, according to FanGraphs, and they still need to bolster their bullpen.
So, could the Diamondbacks pair Arenado and Goldschmidt? The answer might just be yes! With spring training still weeks away, there's time for this dynamic duo to reunite and create a formidable force in Arizona.
What do you think? Is this the move that could propel the Diamondbacks to new heights? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
