D-Backs Make Additions…And Get A New Closer?

Much like the 2017 offseason, the 2018 offseason has been a slow one.

While most of the moves involving the Diamondbacks have been departures: Paul Godschmidt, Patrick Corbin, presumably A.J. Pollock, there have been two additions to the roster and potentially a defined role for the bullpen.

Wilmer Flores Reports

The six-year New York Met is reportedly signing with the Snakes, first reported by ESPN Jeff Passan. Flores will give the infield some versatility and play a role simlar to Daniel Descalso, who signed with the Chicago Cubs.

Even More Depth

The club also acquired utility player Tim Locastro, who was designated for assignment by the New York Yankees on Monday.

#Dbacks acquire INF/OF Tim Locastro from the Yankees for LHP Ronald Roman and cash considerations.
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) January 16, 2019

In six season in the minor leagues, Locastro hit .292 with 28 home runs, 200 RBI and 392 runs scored.

A New Role for the Beard?

“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”

That’s either poetry or ramblings from Semisonic in 1998. But this quote applies to Archie Bradley after he tweeted “closing time” on Twitter this morning.

Could this be an idication of The Beard’s role in 2019? His next chapter may be beginning as a closer while the setup’s beginning is ending. See what I mean about rambling?

Bradley spent the last two years as a reliever setting up Fernando Rodney and Brad Boxberger and posted 144.2 innings pitched for a 2.68 ERA and 154 strikeouts.