Rodriguez Defies Estimators With Elite Location in 2026 Bounce-Back
The D-backs lefty posted a 2.89 ERA despite a 4.27 xERA, crediting a career-best 109 Location+ and an improved four-seam fastball.
Eduardo Rodriguez finished 5th in the NL with a 2.89 ERA in 2026, a sharp turnaround after two seasons above 5.00 ERA with Arizona. His ERA estimators told a different story — xERA of 4.27, xFIP of 4.44, SIERA of 4.62 — suggesting the performance may not be sustainable. The key driver appears to be a career-best 109 Location+, with precise fastball placement and a changeup opponents hit just .209 against. His strikeout rate hit a career-low 18.1%, making continued success heavily dependent on maintaining that elite command.
More on the Diamondbacks wire.
Diamondbacks to part ways with pitching coach Brian Kaplan
Arizona will not retain Brian Kaplan after his two-year contract expires, per MLB.com's Steve Gilbert; whether further staff changes follow remains to be determined.
D-backs part ways with pitching coach Brian Kaplan
Arizona is moving on from pitching coach Brian Kaplan after two seasons, signaling a potential shift in the team's pitching development approach.
MLB Tests Outfield Positioning Limits in Arizona Fall League
For the first time, MLB is trialing rules that restrict where outfielders can stand when a pitch is thrown, alongside new infield positioning limits.
D-backs to target left-handed bats at 1B and DH this offseason
GM Mike Hazen publicly identified adding left-handed hitters as Arizona's top offseason priority after the team ranked fourth-worst vs. right-handed pitching.
Marte's D-Backs Future in Doubt After Conduct Issues, Execs Signal Possible Change
Arizona's GM and manager both addressed Marte's status publicly, stopping short of committing to his return amid a third straight missed playoff.
Lovullo locks in 2-year extension as D-backs manager
Arizona commits to Torey Lovullo for at least two more seasons, providing managerial stability heading into the next stretch of competition.