Diamondbacks
Arizona Diamondbacks Bring Back Paul Sewald
The Arizona Diamondbacks bring back pitcher Paul Sewald. The veteran will compete for a setup role. He could even be part of a closer by committee.
The Arizona Diamondbacks bring back pitcher Paul Sewald. They agreed on a one-year, $1.5 million contract for the 2026 season. His return adds experience to the bullpen.
First Tenure
During his first stint with the team in 2023, Sewald became the primary closer for the Diamondbacks. After coming over at the trade deadline, he brought much-needed stability to an erratic and unreliable bullpen. His leadership and pitching led to a magical World Series run. Sewald was 13 for 15 in saves in the regular season and 6 for 7 in the postseason.
2024 Injury
In 2024, an oblique strain sidelined Sewald, who started the season on the IL. Upon his return, he was dazzling. He converted his first 11 saves, allowing only a single earned run in his first 18 appearances. However, he blew three straight save chances in July. Continuing to struggle and unable to find the strike zone, he blew more save chances and lost the closer role. The right-hander seemed unable to regain his confidence.
Not Offered a Contract
The Diamondbacks did not offer him a contract for the 2025 season, and he became a free agent. He signed with the Cleveland Guardians but was traded to the Detroit Tigers in July. He finished the season with a 4.58 ERA with 22 appearances. Sewald wound up a free agent in November.
Healthy Again
The Arizona Diamondbacks bring back Paul Sewald, who emphasizes that he is fully recovered and healthy. He also looks forward to contributing instantly. He is happy to be back in Arizona, saying he never wanted to leave in the first place and is ready to go.
Injuries to the Bullpen
Last season, the injuries piled up for this team. Co-closers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez both underwent season-ending elbow surgeries. Kevin Ginkel struggled through a shoulder-injury-marred campaign. Jalen Beeks and Ryan Thompson also spent stints on the IL. Sewald will definitely provide help if he is, and remains, injury-free.
MLB Record
The Diamondbacks set an MLB record with 17 different pitchers recording a save. In addition to that, the team also led the NL with 29 blown saves. They need to avoid both of those if they want to be competitive. Having new bullpen arms, along with Sewald, will hopefully help.
Not Just Sewald
Along with Sewald’s return, there’s another reunion with Taylor Clarke back in Arizona. Taylor was also signed to a one-year deal to add depth to the bullpen. The team also traded for Kade Strowd to immediately compete for a spot. He could see time as a closer. They also offered minor-league deals and invitations to Spring Training to Isaiah Campbell and Jonathan Loáisiga.
Sewald’s Role
We expect Sewald to compete for the closer’s role. However, he will have to earn the Manager’s confidence again. Yes, he has experience, knowledge, and leadership, but Torey Lovullo has never been vocal about naming a closer. It will come down to effectiveness and performance during camp.
Outlook
The outlook for Sewald could be a bright one if he remains healthy. He could provide that veteran bullpen role this team needs. That could come from a setup arm or even as a co-closer. The Diamondbacks know they are a playoff contender, but, once again, they need a top-notch bullpen to compete as they did in 2023. Sewald is a piece of the puzzle needed to shore up that bullpen, bringing a strong arm as well as veteran leadership and stability.
Jim Marshall
Jim Marshall has been writing about sports for over 10 years. He started his sports career in radio, co-hosting and producing several sports-talk radio programs in Phoenix. He has covered local, college, and national sports, but specializes in MLB. His articles have appeared in several sports-reporting sites, including our own Legends On Deck. Jim is also a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America (IBWAA).
