Just in: Diamondbacks make intriguing $15 million move on a veteran infielder

The World Series has concluded, signaling the start of the MLB offseason. The Los Angeles Angels kicked off the Hot Stove season by trading with the Atlanta Braves.

On Friday, several teams made significant decisions regarding their contract options. The Arizona Diamondbacks also got involved, announcing their choice concerning Eugenio Suarez. According to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, the Diamondbacks are set to exercise Suarez’s contract option for 2025, meaning he will be under contract at a rate of $15 million for next season. Arizona had the option to buy out the veteran infielder for $2 million but chose not to. Suarez was acquired by the Diamondbacks last winter in a trade with the Seattle Mariners. He experienced a mixed season in Arizona, ultimately finishing with 30 home runs and 101 RBI. The Diamondbacks made a strong push for the postseason after reaching the World Series in 2023, but they fell short in the Wild Card race against the Atlanta Braves and New York Mets.

On the surface, Eugenio Suarez had a fairly strong debut season with the Diamondbacks, finishing with a 3.8 fWAR over 158 games. His 101 RBIs marked the first time he exceeded 100 RBIs in a season since 2019, and 2024 was his third season in the last four with more than 30 home runs. However, as often happens, the statistics don’t reveal the full picture. At the MLB All-Star Break, this performance would have seemed unbelievable for the Diamondbacks. Suarez went into the break with a disappointing slash line of .216/.302/.366 and struck out in nearly 30% of his plate appearances. The first half was certainly challenging for the veteran player.

However, things changed dramatically for Suarez after the All-Star Break. He posted an impressive slash line of .307/.341/.602 during the latter part of 2024, with 20 of his 30 home runs coming in the final 65 games. He emerged as one of the league’s top hitters in the second half of the regular season. Given his strong finish, it’s logical for Arizona to take advantage of his option. However, they may also consider trading him. Top prospect Jordan Lawler, despite spending most of 2024 injured, is on the verge of breaking into the major leagues. Trading Suarez could provide the Diamondbacks an opportunity to give Lawler a full-time chance at the big league level. Suarez has certainly demonstrated that he still has offensive value heading into 2024, justifying the $15 million salary he will earn in 2025. It will be interesting to see if he stays with the Diamondbacks and whether he can achieve greater consistency at the plate next season.

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