Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports this that the Arizona Diamondbacks and Santana agreed to a one-year contract. John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM reported that Santana will receive approximately $2 million.
The 39-year-old Santana struggled offensively in 2025. He posted a .219/.308/.325 batting line over his 474 plate appearances between the Cleveland Guardians and Chicago Cubs, hitting 11 home runs and 11 doubles. Santana was still able to reach base and make contact, drawing 52 walks and striking out 91, but he couldn’t do much when he put the bat to the ball.
Carlos Santana could help the Arizona Diamondbacks in the right situation
Although Santana struggled offensively, he was still an asset with the glove. He was initially credited with 12 points saved, trailing only Matt Olson at the position. Santana is also a lifetime .274/.371/.446 hitter in 2,855 plate appearances against left-handed pitching, hitting 94 home runs and 130 doubles.
Both metrics are areas of need in Arizona. The Diamondbacks were initially looking to add a right-handed hitter to the platoon with Pavin Smith. Although Santana is a switch-hitter, his platoon split against lefties makes him an ideal option. General manager Mike Hazen had stated that he wanted to improve the Diamondbacks’ defense; adding Santana and third baseman Nolan Arenado should lead to a significant upgrade.
Santana is no longer the All-Star caliber player he was during his peak. However, he is still initially one of the best defensive players in the game and has a track record of throwing left-handed. Since his strengths are areas of need for the Diamondbacks, he could prove to be a steal in 2026.
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