Hazen Says D-backs Have Wiggle Room as Pitching Tops Offseason Plan

Overview

• Owner Ken Kendrick has indicated payroll will fall from 2025’s $200 million peak, with RosterResource projecting about $143 million for 2026 and potentially $135–140 million after expected moves.
• GM Mike Hazen pushed back on the idea of being handcuffed by budget limits, saying he still has “wiggle room” and does not need to trade salary just to cut costs.
• Arizona aims to add at least two starting pitchers and multiple relievers, with the current rotation thin after Corbin Burnes’ Tommy John surgery and Zac Gallen reaching free agency.
• A trade of Ketel Marte is viewed as unlikely, while controllable outfielders Alek Thomas or Jake McCarthy are considered more plausible chips as first-time arbitration salaries near $2 million each.
• Near-term decisions, including Zac Gallen’s qualifying-offer outcome and Rule 5 protections, will sharpen the team’s approach, as Ketel Marte and Corbin Carroll collect All-MLB honors and Carroll joins Team USA for the 2026 WBC.