Jason Burgos
The Arizona Diamondbacks are in need of more starting pitching ahead of the MLB trade deadline and they could get in a blockbuster deal right before 6 PM ET.
As we enter August, the Arizona Diamondbacks have been one of the nice surprises in the 2023 MLB season. After a 110-loss season two years ago, the team made some solid headway in 2022 by playing near .500 ball. However, they have taken another step forward this season and are actually right in the middle of the playoff chase.
Related: MLB trade tracker – Live grades, analysis of MLB trades today at 2023 MLB trade deadline
Not only are Diamondbacks a serious contender for a wild card spot but they are still in the race for the National League West title. Yet, if they are really going to make a serious run at the playoffs they need more help, especially in their starting rotation.
Over the last few days, the team has made a few moves, including a surprise trade for Seattle Mariners closer Paul Sewald. But they have yet to nab that starting arm that could make a major impact down the stretch. Well, that could change before the trade deadline later today.
Arizona Diamondbacks record (2023): 57-50
MLB Network league insider Jon Morosi reported on Tuesday afternoon that the “DBacks are among the teams that have discussed Michael Lorenzen with the Tigers.”
For much of his career in the league, the 31-year-old has been a reliever. However, in recent seasons he has shifted back to being a starter and has evolved into a legitimate front-end arm in 2023. In his first season in Detroit Lorenzen earned All-Star honors for the first time as he’s posted a 3.58 ERA and 1.098 WHIP over 18 starts for the Tigers.
- Michael Lorenzen stats (2023): 5-7 record, 3.58 ERA, 1.098 WHIP, 83 SO, 115.2 IP
The nine-year veteran is peaking at the right time as he is set to become a free agent at the right time. This helps the Arizona Diamondbacks since he will be motivated to prove his value with a winning team and increase his asking price on the open market this winter.
