The Arizona Diamondbacks added to their pitching depth Sunday, claiming right-handed reliever Grant Holman off waivers from the Oakland Athletics, the team announced. The move signals Arizona’s continued effort to bolster its bullpen options as spring training gets underway. This acquisition of Grant Holman comes as the D-backs glance to build on a promising 2024 season and navigate the competitive National League West.
To create a roster spot for Holman, the Diamondbacks placed left-handed reliever A.J. Puk on the 60-day injured list. Puk is recovering from ulnar collateral ligament surgery, which will sideline him for a significant portion of the upcoming season. Placing him on the 60-day IL allows the team flexibility as he progresses through his rehabilitation, preventing him from occupying a spot on the active 40-man roster during that time.
Holman’s Background and Career to Date
Holman, 25, has appeared in 40 Major League Baseball games over the past two seasons with the Athletics. He debuted with Oakland in 2024 and has a career ERA of 4.66 across 38.2 innings pitched, recording 33 strikeouts and a 1.58 WHIP. Last season, Holman made 22 appearances, posting a 5.09 ERA over 23 innings with 17 strikeouts and a 1.52 WHIP. He experienced a right shoulder rotator cuff tendinitis injury in June, which led to a transfer to the 60-day injured list.
Drafted in the sixth round of the 2021 MLB Draft, Holman features a fastball that typically sits in the mid-90s, between 94 and 95 mph, according to reports. He also utilizes a split-finger offering around 87 mph, along with a slider and a less frequently used sinker. While not expected to immediately factor into the Diamondbacks’ huge league plans, the team sees potential in his arm and the opportunity for development within their system.
Diamondbacks’ Bullpen Additions
The acquisition of Holman is part of a broader strategy by the Diamondbacks to strengthen their bullpen. Earlier this week, Arizona brought back veteran reliever Paul Sewald on a one-year deal, as reported by Arizona Sports. They also signed pitcher Joe Ross to a minor league deal, adding further depth to their pitching staff. The team also recently secured starter Zac Gallen on a one-year deal, according to Arizona Sports.
Arizona’s bullpen competition is expected to be wide open this spring, with numerous young arms vying for roles. The team is not currently assigning set positions, creating opportunities for players like Holman to earn a spot on the roster based on their performance. The Diamondbacks’ front office clearly values depth, particularly after the challenges faced by their pitching staff during the previous season.
Looking Ahead
The Diamondbacks’ 40-man roster remains full following these moves. The team will continue to evaluate Holman’s progress throughout spring training and determine his role within the organization. The next key date for the Diamondbacks is the start of spring training games, which will provide an early look at how these roster additions fit into manager Torey Lovullo’s plans. Fans can follow updates on the team’s official website and social media channels for the latest news and information.
The D-backs’ focus remains on building a competitive team capable of contending for a playoff berth. The addition of Holman, along with the re-signing of Sewald and the addition of Ross, demonstrates their commitment to strengthening their pitching staff and providing Lovullo with a variety of options as the season unfolds.
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