While the Phillies remain inactive, the Diamondbacks have further strengthened their roster by signing Joc Pederson to a one-year deal. Despite not being in the same division and having limited regular-season matchups, the contrast in their off-season activities is glaring. The team that eliminated the Phillies last October, the Diamondbacks, continues to make strategic moves, while Philadelphia’s front office appears stagnant.
The Diamondbacks secured Pederson on a one-year contract worth $9.5 million, with an additional $14 million mutual option for 2025, as reported by Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic. This move is part of the Diamondbacks’ ongoing efforts to solidify their position as a formidable team in the National League for the upcoming 2024 season and beyond.
Joc Pederson has been a recurring figure in the off-season headlines. The two-time World Series champion created a buzz among Phillies fans with a cryptic post on his Instagram account earlier in the off-season. However, it turned out to be unrelated to any negotiations with the Phillies; rather, it was just Pederson being himself.
Now 31, Pederson primarily serves as a left-handed designated hitter in platoon situations, occasionally playing as a corner outfielder. In the previous season with the San Francisco Giants, he recorded a .235 batting average with 15 home runs in 358 at-bats. Notably, Pederson has historically performed well against the Phillies, boasting a .301 batting average, a .915 OPS, eight home runs, and a 150 wRC+ in 156 at-bats over his 10-year career.
Looking at the Diamondbacks’ overall off-season moves, they have been actively upgrading their roster. Starting with the acquisition of third baseman Eugenio Suárez in November, they added starting pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez in December and brought back veteran Evan Longoria. They also secured outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. on a three-year deal. This comprehensive roster enhancement positions the Diamondbacks as strong contenders in the NL.
On the flip side, the Phillies are witnessing other NL contenders, particularly in the NL West, bolstering their squads. The Dodgers have been aggressive in free agency and trades, and the Diamondbacks are building upon their successful run to the World Series, which included an NLCS upset against the Phillies. Despite an early re-signing of starter Aaron Nola, the Phillies’ off-season has been characterized by limited action, with only minor moves such as the depth signing of pitcher Kolby Allard.
As the countdown to spring training approaches, there is a growing expectation among Phillies fans for their front office to become more active in the player market. While the current roster is formidable based on the team’s performance in the final months of the 2023 season, there is still a need to address certain gaps, particularly in the bullpen. With a limited time frame before Opening Day, fans hope to see the front office take decisive action to enhance the team’s competitiveness for the upcoming NL supremacy battle in 2024.
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