In a stunning turn of events, the Arizona Diamondbacks have secured a six-year, $210 million contract with right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes, as confirmed by sources to ESPN. The signing marks a significant moment in the MLB offseason, as Burnes was considered the top remaining free agent and had been quietly searching for a new team since the start of the winter. The dynamics of this deal, both in terms of Burnes’ journey and the strategic implications for the Diamondbacks, showcase the complexities of player movement in Major League Baseball.
Burnes, a former Cy Young Award winner at age 30, had a defined preference for a West Coast team. However, as the offseason progressed with other pitchers locking in lucrative contracts, his options appeared to dwindle. Despite his hometown inclinations, Burnes remained open to negotiations with all teams, hoping to land a lucrative and long-term deal that matched his career achievements. This willingness to listen to offers ultimately led to his surprising alignment with the Diamondbacks—a team that had not previously been on the radar for acquiring his services.
The acquisition not only brings Burnes to Arizona but significantly strengthens an already impressive rotation. This group includes talents like Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and newly added Eduardo Rodriguez, suggesting that the Diamondbacks are not just motivated to improve but are also positioning themselves as serious contenders in the National League West.
The timing of Burnes’ contract mirrors a notable moment in the franchise’s history, evoking memories of when they signed Zack Greinke to a similar deal nine years ago. The Diamondbacks appear determined to craft a roster that can dethrone the Los Angeles Dodgers, the perennial powers of the division. By securing Burnes, they reclaim a spotlight in a division characterized by fierce competition and storied rivalries.
Having recently clinched a spot in the 2023 World Series, the Diamondbacks are no strangers to success against tough adversaries. As the last team to defeat the Dodgers in the postseason, their confidence will undoubtedly be buoyed by this new signing. Adding a player of Burnes’ caliber could ultimately provide the edge they need to contend in the upcoming season.
Since he solidified his place in the Milwaukee Brewers’ rotation in 2020, Burnes has amassed an impressive list of achievements that underscored his emergence as one of the elite pitchers in baseball. Ranking third in innings pitched with a total of 816.2, he boasts a remarkably low ERA of 2.88 and has 946 strikeouts to his name during this span. Such statistics place him among the upper echelons of Major League Baseball pitchers, showcasing his durability and effectiveness.
Even amid a challenging season in which his strikeout rate dipped to 8.4 per nine innings, Burnes demonstrated resilience. His performance rebounded in the latter part of the season with a notable 1.20 ERA in September and a standout eight-inning playoff performance against the Kansas City Royals. These elements reveal a pitcher who can rise to the occasion when stakes are high, a quality that mutuals intend to leverage as he embarks on this new chapter with the Diamondbacks.
While the monetary aspects of Burnes’ contract don’t surpass Max Fried’s eight-year, $218 million deal with the New York Yankees, it situates him among an elite group of pitchers securing contracts exceeding $35 million annually. Such comparisons with Gerrit Cole and Stephen Strasburg highlight the financial commitment the Diamondbacks are making in pursuit of championship aspirations.
Moreover, despite concerns surrounding aging pitchers within the league, advanced metrics such as Stuff+ continue to reflect Burnes’ prowess on the mound. His cutter, once deemed the finest among starters, along with his well-rated pitches, suggests that he remains a formidable asset.
As Corbin Burnes prepares to don the Diamondbacks jersey, the anticipation surrounding this partnership reaches a fever pitch, signaling an exciting season ahead for the franchise and its fan base. The Arizona Diamondbacks are undoubtedly making bold moves that could reshape their trajectory in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.