Bring Josh Rojas Home? Best Non-Tendered Players Who Could Help the Diamondbacks
The MLB non-tender deadline often signals the end of the road for certain players with their current teams but also opens a unique window of opportunity for others. This year, the Arizona Diamondbacks, fresh off a respectable season, have a chance to bolster their roster with some intriguing talent from the non-tendered pool. One name that has already sparked conversation among fans is former D-back Josh Rojas. Could a reunion be in the cards? Let’s break down why Rojas and other newly-available players could help Arizona chase greater success in 2025.
Why Josh Rojas Makes Sense for the Diamondbacks
Josh Rojas, a versatile infielder and outfielder, was part of the Diamondbacks’ system until he was traded to the Seattle Mariners as part of the deal for Paul Sewald in mid-2023. Rojas has always been a fan favorite in Arizona, appreciated for his hustle, ability to play multiple positions, and solid left-handed bat. However, his time in Seattle didn’t yield the results many hoped for, leading the Mariners to non-tender him.
For the Diamondbacks, bringing Rojas back would make sense for several reasons. First, his defensive versatility would provide manager Torey Lovullo with more options. Whether slotting into second base, third base, or a corner outfield position, Rojas’ flexibility could fill gaps created by injuries or slumps.
Second, Rojas could provide a consistent bat off the bench or in a platoon role. While his power numbers have never been eye-popping, his ability to work counts and put the ball in play aligns well with Arizona’s offensive philosophy. Moreover, his familiarity with the team and the city could ease his transition, making him a low-risk, high-reward addition.
However, Rojas’ struggles with consistency and his relatively modest career WAR (Wins Above Replacement) may raise questions. Would his return be more sentimental than strategic? That debate alone makes the idea of bringing him back a polarizing topic among fans and analysts alike.
Other Non-Tendered Options for Arizona
Rojas isn’t the only intriguing name among the non-tendered players this offseason. Let’s explore a few others who could make a meaningful impact on the Diamondbacks’ roster:
Jorge Alfaro – Catcher
The Diamondbacks could use depth at catcher, especially behind Gabriel Moreno. Jorge Alfaro, a veteran backstop with raw power and an exceptional arm, offers a compelling mix of skills. While his high strikeout rate and inconsistency at the plate have been issues, he has the ability to change games with one swing of the bat.
Defensively, Alfaro’s framing metrics aren’t elite, but his ability to control the running game with his cannon of an arm could complement Moreno’s more refined approach behind the plate. Adding Alfaro would not only give the Diamondbacks depth but also provide valuable insurance should Moreno suffer an injury.
Dominic Smith – First Base/Outfield
Dominic Smith, a former top prospect for the Mets, has seen his career trajectory waver due to injuries and inconsistent playing time. However, when healthy, Smith brings a potent left-handed bat and decent defensive skills at both first base and left field.
With Christian Walker holding down first base for Arizona, Smith could slide into a bench role or serve as a lefty DH option, balancing the lineup and providing some pop against right-handed pitchers. His track record as a contact hitter with occasional power makes him a solid depth piece, especially for a team looking to improve its bench production.
Luis Urías – Infielder
Luis Urías, most recently with the Boston Red Sox, is another player Arizona should consider. At just 26 years old, Urías still has plenty of upside. A natural second baseman who can also play third and shortstop, he’d provide another versatile option for the infield.
Urías has shown flashes of brilliance at the plate, with his 2021 season in Milwaukee standing out as his best. Though injuries have hampered his development, a change of scenery might help him regain his form. Adding Urías would not only bolster Arizona’s infield depth but also give the team a player with untapped potential.
Matt Wisler – Relief Pitcher
The Diamondbacks’ bullpen has been a weakness in recent seasons, and while Paul Sewald has helped stabilize the closer role, Arizona needs more middle-inning options. Matt Wisler, a journeyman reliever with a knack for spin-heavy breaking pitches, could be a low-cost option to fill that gap.
Wisler has been inconsistent but effective when his slider is working. In a bullpen that often lacked swing-and-miss stuff in critical moments, Wisler’s ability to generate strikeouts could be invaluable. At the very least, he’d provide depth and another veteran arm for Lovullo to deploy in high-leverage situations.
What the Diamondbacks Should Prioritize
While the Diamondbacks have a solid core of young talent, the gaps in their roster became evident during the postseason. The team needs to prioritize the following areas:
1. Bullpen Depth: Arizona must address its bullpen woes. Wisler and other non-tendered relievers like Alex Reyes or Anthony Bass could provide solutions.
2. Bench Production: Adding players like Rojas or Smith could improve Arizona’s ability to produce runs in late-game situations.
3. Defensive Versatility: Players like Rojas and Urías would give Lovullo more flexibility in managing injuries and optimizing matchups.
4. Veteran Leadership: Adding experienced players who can mentor the team’s young stars is crucial as Arizona looks to make deeper postseason runs.
Final Thoughts
Bringing back Josh Rojas would undoubtedly stir emotions among fans. While some might see it as a sentimental move, others view it as a practical decision to add versatility and depth. Beyond Rojas, the Diamondbacks have several intriguing options among the non-tendered players to address key weaknesses in their roster.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to GM Mike Hazen and his staff, who must weigh the pros and cons of each potential signing. As Arizona looks to build on its recent success, the non-tender market could provide the affordable yet impactful additions the team needs to take the next step.
Will the Diamondbacks gamble on familiar faces or embrace fresh starts with new talent? Either way, the offseason promises to be an exciting—and possibly polarizing—time for fans in the desert.