2026-2027 Offseason Plan: Path to 85 Wins?

Jeff Irving of AZ Snake Pit outlines potential offseason paths for the Arizona Diamondbacks to reach an 85-win benchmark ahead of the 2027 season. Using a Marcel-style WAR model, the author notes the current roster projects for roughly 80 wins. The analysis models potential trade packages and free-agent targets while accounting for expected payroll restrictions announced by owner Ken Kendrick.

Irving argues that reaching 85 wins requires overhauling a starting rotation that projects in the bottom third of Major League Baseball. Potential strategies analyzed include trading Ketel Marte to clear an estimated $13.75 million in payroll flexibility, pursuing free-agent starters such as Trevor Rogers, and targeting left-handed hitters like Colt Keith or Lawrence Butler.