Diamondbacks' Trade Deadline Strategy in Flux Amid Recent Surge

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves at a crossroads.

General Manager Mike Hazen faces a challenging decision on whether to buy or sell, especially after the team's recent performance.

Following a dominant 10-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday, the Diamondbacks have improved their record to 49-50, placing them just 4.5 games behind the final National League Wild Card spot.

In that game, Eugenio Suárez showcased his power with two home runs, bringing his season total to 33, and contributing three RBIs.

Outfielder Corbin Carroll added to the offensive surge with two triples, while shortstop Geraldo Perdomo chipped in with three singles and four RBIs.

On the mound, Ryne Nelson delivered a solid performance, allowing just one run over six innings.

Despite this upswing, Hazen remains uncertain about the team's direction as the deadline looms.

He noted that most inquiries from other teams assume the Diamondbacks will be sellers.

“I would love nothing more than to really help the sellers by choking out the supply because the Diamondbacks players aren’t available,” Hazen remarked.

Several key players are set to become free agents after this season, including All-Star third baseman Eugenio Suárez, first baseman Josh Naylor, and pitchers Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.

Suárez has been a standout, slashing .254/.326/.585 with 33 home runs and 81 RBIs, making him a prime target for contending teams.

With the team playing well post-All-Star break, Hazen acknowledges the delicate position they are in.

“We are in a pretty precarious situation relative to where we are in the Wild Card race where you can look at one way or the other,” he said.

“It’s ultimately going to be my decision on what direction that ultimately takes us.”

As the Diamondbacks aim for a series sweep against the Cardinals, they look to build momentum and possibly shift the narrative as the trade deadline approaches.

First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. MST, with Merrill Kelly starting for Arizona against St. Louis right-hander Miles Mikolas.

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