The Arizona Diamondbacks are facing a crucial decision for the upcoming season: who will step up to the plate in center field? But here's the catch: it's not just about filling a position; it's about finding the missing piece to elevate the team's performance.
The 2025 season exposed a glaring need for improvement in center field. While it might not be the primary reason for the team's struggles, addressing this position could be a game-changer. Diamondbacks' center fielders collectively ranked among the bottom five in Major League Baseball (MLB) for OPS (.628) and wins above replacement (0.1). Even defensively, they finished mid-table with -3 defensive runs saved, indicating a need for both offensive and defensive upgrades.
But here's where it gets controversial: The team's current center fielders, Alek Thomas and Jake McCarthy, are once again at the center of trade rumors. So, what are the Diamondbacks' options?
Internal Improvement:
The Diamondbacks have a pool of talented players who can step up to the challenge. Thomas, despite a lackluster offensive record, has shown flashes of brilliance since his debut in 2022. McCarthy, on the other hand, had a solid 2024 season but struggled in 2025. The team also has versatile players like Blaze Alexander and Jordan Lawlar, who could potentially fill the role. Alexander's speed and arm strength are promising, but his consistency in a large outfield remains a question. Lawlar, a former top prospect, is new to the outfield but showed potential in winter ball.
Other internal options include Tommy Troy, Ryan Waldschmidt, Jorge Barrosa, and Tim Tawa. Troy and Waldschmidt, both infielders, were given outfield opportunities last season. Barrosa is a stellar defender but needs to improve against big league pitching, while Tawa's utility role makes him a flexible option.
Move Corbin Carroll:
Carroll, a seasoned MLB center fielder, could be a solution. He had his best defensive season in 2025, and moving him to center would create flexibility in targeting free agents. However, with left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. out for most of the next season, the Diamondbacks must carefully consider their corner outfield options.
Sign a Free Agent:
The free agent market offers some exciting prospects. Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, both top-tier players, would be ideal but likely too expensive. Harrison Bader, a midseason acquisition for Philadelphia, is an excellent defender with power. Mike Yastrzemski, a former Giant, has been consistently productive. Cedric Mullins, despite a slump in 2025, has been a solid contributor. Rob Refsnyder and Austin Hays are right-handed bats with impressive records against lefties.
Trades:
Trading for an outfielder might seem counterintuitive, especially with in-house options available. However, the Diamondbacks could explore trades involving star players like Ketel Marte. A potential deal with the Red Sox could bring in young pitching talent and Jarren Duran. Alternatively, trading from their prospect pool for pitching could open doors for acquiring outfielders from their minor league system. Names like Steven Kwan, Luis Robert Jr., Jake Meyers, Byron Buxton, Nick Castellanos, and Jeff McNeil have been mentioned in trade discussions.
The Diamondbacks have a complex decision to make. Should they stick with internal options and hope for improvement, or take a risk with a trade or free agent signing? What do you think is the best course of action for the team? Share your thoughts and let's spark a discussion on how the Diamondbacks can find their center field solution for the 2026 season and beyond.
