Diamondbacks Make a Shocker: Land Corbin Burnes on a Six-Year Deal
The Arizona Diamondbacks pulled off a major signing, agreeing to a six-year, $210 million contract with top free-agent pitcher Corbin Burnes, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. This surprising move marks a major shakeup for the Diamondbacks and the free agent pitching market as a whole.
Major Market Competition, but Burnes Chose Arizona
Burnes was highly sought after, with numerous teams vying for his services, including the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, San Francisco Giants, and Toronto Blue Jays. Many reports, including USA Today’s Bob Nightengale indicated that the Giants and Blue Jays offered more initial guarantees than the Diamondbacks. However, Arizona’s lower taxes and Burnes’ residency in Scottsdale likely played a significant role in his decision.
The deal also includes an opt-out clause after the 2026 season, allowing Burnes to test free agency again should he wish.
Burnes’ Dominant Track Record
Ending speculation, the Diamondbacks have secured a top-tier pitcher. Burnes solidified himself as a dominant force in 2020, finishing sixth in NL Cy Young voting followed by winning the award the next year. He has been a perennial All-Star and contender for the league’s best starters.
Over the past five seasons, Burnes has been remarkably consistent:
- Fifth among qualified MLB starters in innings pitched
- Second in fWAR
- Fourth in ERA
- Sixth in FIP
- Third in strikeouts
While his strikeouts have dipped slightly in recent seasons, his ERA and FIP remain significantly lower than the league average. The Diamondbacks are betting on his peak performance returning.
Impact on the Diamondbacks’ 2025 Season
This signing signals a bold move by the Diamondbacks, who came close to making the playoffs in 2023. Burnes will pair with longtime ace Zac Gallen, creating a formidable one-two punch at the top of the rotation. With veterans Merrill Kelly and Eduardo Rodríguez providing stability in the middle, and young talents Brandon Pfaadt and Ryne Nelson providing depth, the Diamondbacks’ starting pitching is looking incredibly strong.
The off-season saw the team lose power hitters Joc Pederson and Christian Walker through free agency. They’ve made moves to address this loss, but it remains to be seen if they can adequately bolster their lineup. With a stellar rotation, the Diamondbacks have a real chance to compete in 2025.
What’s Next for the Diamondbacks?
After the massive Burnes signing, the Diamondbacks face a potential payroll crunch. They’ve reportedly targeted bullpen help and another hitter, particularly a right-handed bat, to round out their roster. Further moves will likely involve trading veteran players to create financial flexibility.
Stay tuned to see how the Diamondbacks continue to shape their roster in the coming weeks and months.