Diamondbacks Make a Decision on Carlos Santana

Santana, 40, signed a one-year, $2 million deal with Arizona in February that included a mutual option for 2027. Though the 17-year veteran’s offense declined sharply in 2025, he remained an elite defender with eight Outs Above Average, the third-most among all MLB first basemen.

His time in a Diamondbacks uniform did not last long. Santana appeared in eight games before a strained right adductor landed him on the injured list in early April. Before the injury, the switch-hitter produced a .083/.154/.125 slash line over 26 plate appearances.

Shortly after beginning a rehab assignment in May, Santana re-injured his adductor while playing for Triple-A Reno. He began another rehab assignment on June 5 but hit .130/.333/.261 in eight minor league games. Rehab assignments for position players have a 20-day maximum, and because Santana is out of minor league options, Arizona had to make a decision as his window closed.

In Santana’s absence, the Diamondbacks have given much of the playing time at first base to Ildemaro Vargas, who is hitting .261/.304/.407 with seven home runs and 42 RBIs in 61 games. They also have two more capable first basemen in Pavin Smith and LuJames Groover, leaving no room for Santana on the major league roster.

Assuming Santana is not traded or claimed off waivers, the Diamondbacks will likely grant him his release so he can pursue opportunities elsewhere. The former All-Star has played for nine teams during his 17-year career, including three stints with the Cleveland Guardians.

The Diamondbacks enter play on Wednesday with a 40-39 record and in third place at 10.5 games back in the National League West division. They're two games back of the third and final NL Wild Card spot.