The Arizona Diamondbacks signed right-hander Zack Littell to a Major League contract on Sunday, adding depth to a rotation that’s been hit hard by injuries.
Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic broke the news first.
Littell becomes available after Washington released him from his one-year, $7 million contract earlier this season. The timing works perfectly for Arizona, which is dealing with multiple rotation injuries.
The nine-year veteran has split time between starting and relieving this year, posting a 4.97 ERA with a 14.6% strikeout rate over 112 innings. Those numbers aren’t eye-popping, but he brings experience and versatility.
What makes this signing smart is Littell’s ability to fill multiple roles. He’s made 13 of his 24 appearances as a reliever this season, so he can slide into the bullpen once Arizona gets healthy.
“Adding Littell to the mix would give the D-backs another reliable arm as they wait for some key rotation options to return,” MLB.com’s Jesse Borek wrote yesterday.
Rotation in Flux
Arizona’s rotation situation is complicated right now. Merrill Kelly left Friday’s start early with a right leg cramp, though he’s expected to make his next turn. The bigger concerns are Zac Gallen (right elbow inflammation) and Corbin Burnes (Tommy John surgery/teres major strain).
Both Gallen and Burnes could return if their rehabs go smoothly – that’s a big if, especially for Burnes who’s dealt with multiple setbacks.
Littell’s best work came as a reliever with Minnesota in 2021, when he struck out 63 batters in 61.2 innings and posted a 142 ERA+. That’s the ceiling Arizona hopes to tap into.
The move gives manager Torey Lovullo flexibility. Littell can start immediately if needed, then transition to high-leverage relief work once the rotation gets healthy. For a team trying to stay in contention, that kind of versatility matters more than flashy numbers.
