The Arizona Diamondbacks will face several roster decisions this offseason, although some appear considerably easier to predict than others.

Arizona has many members of its active roster under contract for the 2027 season and manager Torey Lovullo will return, providing continuity while the team reshapes other areas.

However, the Diamondbacks have several players with expiring agreements who could either receive new contracts or continue their careers elsewhere.

Ryan Thompson appears almost certain to depart.

Like Kevin Ginkel, Thompson provided Arizona with many valuable innings during his time with the organization.

His contributions included helping the Diamondbacks during their 2023 postseason run and World Series appearance against the Texas Rangers.

Thompson is also set to become a free agent, leaving Arizona with another bullpen decision.

The sidearm pitcher’s effectiveness clearly declined during the 2026 season.

Thompson finished with a 4.43 ERA and 1.57 WHIP in 40.2 innings over 46 appearances. His ERA was his highest since 2020.

His sinker was never dependent on high velocity, but it averaged below 90 mph during the season. His command also appeared much less reliable than it had been in previous years.

Thompson remained highly effective through June before struggling badly in July.

He posted a 9.00 ERA and 2.50 WHIP in 10 innings over 11 appearances during the month.

Shortly afterward, Thompson landed on the Injured List with a back and hip injury. The issue ended his season and prevented him from attempting to recover from his difficult July.

Arizona could reasonably retain Thompson on an inexpensive contract because of his injury and disappointing results.

However, his best seasons may be behind him. The Diamondbacks will likely prioritize relievers such as Taylor Clarke or Jonathan Loaisiga instead of bringing Thompson back.

Thompson has built his success through deception, movement and an unusual delivery rather than overwhelming velocity. His low arm slot creates a different angle and can make hitters uncomfortable.

That distinctive look can be valuable within a bullpen because it forces opponents to adjust after facing pitchers with more conventional deliveries.

Thompson also brings experience from an extended postseason run. He understands how to prepare when every relief appearance carries greater importance and one mistake can alter a series.

His willingness to accept different assignments helped Arizona use him according to matchups and bullpen availability.

However, his approach leaves little room for error when his command declines. Without premium velocity, Thompson must locate his sinker precisely and generate enough movement to avoid comfortable contact.

The back and hip injury further complicates his future because repeating a sidearm delivery requires reliable lower-body movement.

A low-cost agreement would give Thompson an opportunity to prove he can recover. Arizona, though, appears more likely to invest its bullpen resources elsewhere.