The Arizona Diamondbacks claimed outfielder Jesus Sanchez off waivers, injecting much-needed left-handed power into a righty-heavy lineup as they scramble to erase a deficit in the National League Wild Card race.
With only 11 games remaining in the regular season, the Arizona Diamondbacks finally added another left-handed power option to their lineup. The question is whether the move arrived soon enough to strengthen their push for the postseason.
Bob Nightengale from USA TODAY reported that the Diamondbacks claimed Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Jesus Sanchez off waivers Monday. Arizona made the addition one day after designating Lourdes Gurriel for assignment.
Too little too late?
Sanchez’s arrival will require the Diamondbacks to send one of their right-handed outfielders to Triple-A, although the team has not revealed who will be moved.
The left-handed hitter produced solid numbers for Toronto, hitting .260 with eight home runs, 35 RBIs and a .734 OPS in 99 games.
Sanchez has built his career around his ability to hit for power against right-handed pitching, recording a .775 career OPS in those matchups.
That makes him particularly important for an Arizona lineup that has needed greater balance.
His overall numbers may not immediately stand out, but his left-handed power gives the Diamondbacks another lineup option and another potential source of damage against opposing right-handers.
Sanchez, however, has struggled recently. He is 2-for-11 (.182) with an RBI through five games this month.
Time is running out
Arizona enters the closing stretch 2.5 games behind the San Diego Padres for the final National League Wild Card spot. With so little time remaining, the Diamondbacks must determine whether they waited too long to secure the left-handed power hitter they needed and how much that delay could affect them.
The team had actively searched for offensive help. Arizona acquired Lars Nootbaar at the trade deadline and recently promoted Pavin Smith again to address its need against right-handed pitching.
Those decisions showed that the Diamondbacks recognized the weaknesses within their lineup. However, a roster featuring so many right-handed hitters required more than two additions to alter its offensive dynamic.
That is where Sanchez becomes an intriguing piece. His power could make a difference if he settles into his new surroundings quickly and delivers meaningful at-bats during the final stretch. Arizona no longer has much time to make adjustments.
How Sanchez can help
Sanchez will not be asked to carry the entire offense, but the Diamondbacks need him to contribute while they continue fighting for their postseason lives.
Timely hits and extra-base contact carry greater significance when every remaining game has increased importance.
Beyond his power, Sanchez offers the ability to change how opposing teams manage their pitching. His presence can make it more difficult for rivals to rely heavily on right-handed relievers and gives Arizona another way to construct its lineup.
He also brings experience handling different outfield assignments and accepting changing responsibilities. Joining a contender this late requires adaptability, preparation and the confidence to contribute immediately.
Sanchez must remain patient without becoming passive, identify pitches he can drive and avoid placing unnecessary pressure on himself. He does not need to transform Arizona’s offense alone.
Quality at-bats, dependable defense and controlled aggression would make him a valuable part of the Diamondbacks’ final postseason push.
