The Arizona Diamondbacks are staring down a huge decision on All-Star outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr., and it looks like they’re ready to cut ties. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the D-backs are likely to pay Gurriel’s $5 million buyout to get out of his $14 million club option. That’s a ton of cash to just walk away from, but when you look at his season, it makes total sense.
That .541 OPS Is Not Earning $14 Million
Let’s be real, a .541 OPS is just not getting it done, especially for a guy who was an All-Star. Gurriel, who’s 32 and will be 33 next year, has put up that measly .541 OPS this season over 47 games. Nobody is going to argue that’s worth $14 million. Feinsand is spot on saying his price tag means the D-backs will absolutely use that buyout and let him hit free agency. Why would you accept a $14 million option for a veteran outfielder whose numbers are cratering? The club shouldn’t even consider bringing him back, no matter the cost, but with that massive contract option on the table, it makes this whole thing a no-brainer.
Decline Was Already Showing, Now It’s Obvious
You could see the writing on the wall last season when Gurriel’s OPS dropped to .713. That was already a sign of a decline for a veteran. Now, with a .541 OPS this season? Ouch. His career OPS of .762 is actually pretty solid and probably *would* be worth a $14 million option, but that’s not the production he’s given them this year, or even last year. There’s basically zero scenario where picking up that $14 million club option makes any sense at all. The only real move is to pay the $5 million buyout and move on.
So, what’s next for the D-backs? They’ll save $9 million by making this move. That’s a good chunk of change. Look for them to use that cash to try and grab a different upgrade or two. They desperately need to find some pop in the outfield or shore up another part of the roster. Keep your eyes peeled for what Arizona does with that extra money. They’ve got to make it count.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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