Burnes Signs Massive Contract with Diamondbacks
FanGraphs insider reports that right-handed pitcher Corbin Burnes has agreed to a six-year, $210 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. This news comes as a major development for both the team and Burnes, establishing a new chapter for both parties.
Contract Details and Incentives
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the deal includes an opt-out clause after two years, giving Burnes the flexibility to explore the free agent market sooner if desired.
“Burnes was offered more money by the Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants, but noted that there are lower taxes in Arizona. It is the largest contract in Diamondbacks franchise history.”
– Bob Nightengale, USA Today
Diamondbacks Aim for Postseason Glory
The Diamondbacks are coming off a season where they narrowly missed the playoffs, having reached the World Series in 2023. Adding a starting pitcher of Burnes’ caliber provides a significant boost to their hopes of contending for a playoff spot in the coming years.
Burnes’ Dominant Season with the Orioles
The 30-year-old played the 2024 season with the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing his talent with a 2.92 ERA and 181 strikeouts over 194.1 innings pitched. His stellar performance earned him a fifth place finish in AL Cy Young voting and a fourth All-Star selection.
Burnes further cemented his status as an ace in the postseason, allowing just one run over eight innings against the Kansas City Royals in Game 1 of the AL Wild Card Series.
Previous Success with the Brewers
Burnes spent his first six seasons in the MLB with the Milwaukee Brewers. During his time there, he earned the 2021 NL Cy Young Award after leading the National League in ERA and FIP.
Signature Cutter and MLB Impact
Since his 2020 debut, Burnes has quickly established himself as one of the most effective pitchers in the league.
“Since Burnes burst onto the scene in 2020, only Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler have thrown more innings than the Bakersfield, Calif. native and only three qualified pitchers have a lower ERA.”
Burnes’ signature cutter has been consistently ranked as one of the best pitches in baseball based on Statcast data, generating a run value of 90 since 2020.
Looking Ahead
Burnes’ decision to join the Diamondbacks signifies a major commitment to rebuilding the franchise. With his impressive track record and elite pitching arsenal, Burnes is poised to lead the Diamondbacks to success in the years to come.
Read more about Corbin Burnes and his impressive career trajectory.