Diamondbacks predicted to be dark horse landing spot for $6.7 million All-Star, would temporarily replace Lourdes Gurriel Jr. originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Arizona Diamondbacks have addressed some problems through free agency, but there’s still something they need to address: who will replace Lourdes Gurriel Jr. for the foreseeable future?
Fansided’s Zachary Rotman predicts the Dbacks could be a dark horse contender to sign former All-Star Michael Conforto as a replacement. He just had a down year, but could still hold the line adequately.
“If an Astros deal doesn't come to fruition, the Arizona Diamondbacks should swoop in and sign him. With Lourdes Gurriel Jr. expected to begin the year on the IL, the need for a left fielder, at least to start the season, is abundantly clear, especially if Jordan Lawlar isn't quite ready to be a full-time outfielder,” Rotman wrote.
This past season, Conforto slumped, slashing .199/.395/.333/.637 with 20 doubles, 12 home runs, and 36 RBI in 138 games. However, in 2024 he hit .237/.309/.450/.759 with 27 doubles, 20 home runs and 66 RBI.
Conforto’s also only projected to receive a one-year, $6.7 million dollar deal. So if he doesn’t contribute much, they could cut him upon Gurriel’s return.
With time running out, the Dbacks need to make a move, and this is probably the best one they can make.
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