The Diamondbacks are making some strategic moves, bringing in new talent on minor league deals! But are these signings a sign of a promising future, or a gamble on players with something to prove? Let's dive in.
The Arizona Diamondbacks have recently bolstered their roster by signing two players to minor league contracts: right-handed pitcher Joe Ross and outfielder Oscar Mercado. These agreements come with a valuable perk: an invitation to participate in the Diamondbacks' major league spring training camp. The news of Ross's deal was first shared by Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, while Steve Adams from MLB Trade Rumors reported on Mercado's signing. It's worth noting that Ross is represented by Wasserman, and Mercado by Excel Sports Management.
Now, let's talk about Joe Ross. Last offseason, he inked a one-year deal worth $4 million with the Philadelphia Phillies. This came after a rather impressive 2024 season where he showcased strong numbers, posting a 1.67 ERA across 27 innings after transitioning from a starting role with the Brewers to a bullpen specialist. After a significant layoff due to Tommy John surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2022-23 seasons, his 2024 performance was a welcome comeback, suggesting that a career as a relief pitcher might be a viable path forward.
But here's where it gets tricky for Ross. His tenure in Philadelphia didn't quite go as planned. He ended up with a 5.12 ERA, a strikeout rate of 17.1%, and a walk rate of 7.9% over 51 innings for the Phillies. In his 37 appearances, he started just one game and unfortunately gave up eight home runs. The Phillies eventually released Ross in late August. He then joined the Cubs on a minor league deal but didn't get a chance to play in the majors, even when rosters expanded in September.
And this is the part most people miss... The question now is, can Joe Ross recapture that 2024 bullpen magic and prove his worth to the Diamondbacks? His past success in relief is undeniable, but his struggles in Philadelphia raise some concerns.
As for Oscar Mercado, we'll be keeping a close eye on his performance during spring training. His ability to contribute to the team's outfield depth will be crucial.
What are your thoughts on these signings? Do you think Joe Ross can bounce back, or is this a risky move for the Diamondbacks? Let us know in the comments below!
