The Diamondbacks are close to acquiring slugger Joc Pederson, who was a target for the Toronto Blue Jays this offseason, according to an Arizona Republic story.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are reportedly nearing an agreement to sign free agency slugger Joc Pederson, according to a report from the Arizona Republic.
According to a source on Thursday, the Diamondbacks and free-agent slugger Joc Pederson are “very close” to signing a deal. Pederson’s presence would help the team fulfill its need for a middle-of-the-lineup bat.
The D’Backs want to strengthen their offensive this offseason after losing to the Texas Rangers in the World Series. They acquired Pederson in addition to bringing back Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and trading for Eugenio Suarez. If they want to compete with the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West, they will want that offensive.
Conversely, Pederson’s decision to travel to Arizona means he will not be visiting Toronto. The Jays were reportedly quite interested in his talents, as we had learned earlier in the month. After all, they also required assistance at designated hitter following Brandon Belt’s departure via free agency.
The 31-year-old Pederson played for the Dodgers, Cubs, Braves, and Giants during his ten years in the major leagues. He has been an All-Star twice in his career and won World Series championships with the 2020 Dodgers and the 2021 Braves.
He is a.237 hitter with 186 home runs and 485 RBI in his career. In 2015, he hit 26 home runs, and in 2019, he drove in 74 runs, making both seasons his most productive.
Toronto may try to get Joey Votto to fill in at designated hitter now that Pederson is out of the picture. The Angels have recently expressed interest in him. Additionally, they have ties to Jorge Soler.
