Diamondbacks Add Right-Handed Pitcher Grant Holman, Place A.J. Puk on IL

The Arizona Diamondbacks have claimed right-handed pitcher Grant Holman off waivers from the Oakland Athletics, the team announced Sunday. To create a roster spot, left-handed pitcher A.J. Puk was placed on the 60-day injured list as he continues his recovery from left ulnar collateral ligament surgery.

Holman’s Background and Career

Holman, 25, was originally drafted by the Athletics in the sixth round of the 2021 MLB Draft. He made his major league debut with Oakland in August 2024, and has appeared in 40 major league games over the past two seasons. In 38.2 career innings, Holman has a 4.66 ERA with 33 strikeouts and 18 walks. His fastball averages in the mid-90s, between 94 and 95 MPH, and he also features a split-finger offering around 87 MPH, along with a slider and sinker.

Prior to being claimed by Arizona, Holman had a strong performance in eight appearances for Triple-A Las Vegas last year, allowing just one hit across 9.1 scoreless innings with nine strikeouts and one walk. Although, his 2025 season was cut short due to rotator cuff tendinitis, ultimately leading to his placement on the 60-day injured list by the Athletics.

Contract Status

Holman has just over one year of service time, meaning he won’t be eligible for arbitration until 2028 and is under team control through the 2031 season.

Little League Accomplishment

Notably, Holman threw a no-hitter for California in the 2013 Little League World Series – the only seven-inning solo no-hitter in the LLWS since 1979. At the time, he was already 6-foot-4, and currently stands at 6-foot-6.

A.J. Puk’s Injury

A.J. Puk underwent ulnar collateral ligament surgery and had indicated a potential return prior to July. Being placed on the 60-day injured list will delay his activation until mid-May, followed by a ramp-up period.

The Diamondbacks’ 40-man roster remains full at 40 players.