Only a few hours ago, it was reported that the Arizona Diamondbacks are pivoting to full seller mode. Outfielder Randal Grichuk was viewed as a certainty to be dealt, and before the day is out, that promise came true. Per MLB insider Jon Heyman, they have traded him to the Kansas City Royals.
Grichuk, 33, has been a platoon hitter against left-handers in recent years. In 2024, he absolutely mashed southpaws, batting .319 with a .913 OPS over 163 at-bats. That’s come down this season, as injuries have significantly sapped his productivity. But he’s coming in hot with a .924 OPS in July, and has a .750 OPS against left-handers this season. He’s a savvy pickup for a Royals team clinging to playoff hopes.
The Royals City have the second-lowest average runs per game in the major leagues. A lot of that is due to their outfield, where nobody is hitting this year. None of their outfielders have an OPS+ above 78; Grichuk is at 102 in a down year. It’s a good low-risk get for a team that could make a run for a wild-card spot if their offense improves in any way. This Randal Grichuk trade gives their lineup a big boost, especially against southpaws.
Headed back to the Diamondbacks is rookie reliever Andrew Hoffman, per MLB insider Mark Feinsand. He only threw 4.2 innings with the Royals this year, but has a 2.25 ERA with Triple-A Omaha this season. The 25-year-old has a live fastball that he mixes with a changeup and a slider.
Grichuk makes only $2 million this season, and has a $5 million mutual option for next season.
