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Diamondbacks Sign Kendall Graveman: What to Make of Move

Originally posted on New Baseball Media
By Chris Studley | Last updated Feb 15, 2025 1:04 AM ET

Relievers have been coming off the board quickly in February — although a few notable ones remained heading into this weekend. One of those names was Kendall Graveman, who reportedly signed with the Diamondbacks. Arizona adds a veteran arm who has excelled in various roles over the years.

A Look at Graveman

Before missing all of 2024 thanks to right shoulder surgery, Kendall Graveman put up strong numbers, highlighted by a 154 ERA+ that ranked 21st among relievers (min. 70 IP) from 2021-23.

Graveman, from that span, struck out 193 over 187 frames and posted a sharp 0.8 HR/9 rate.

In his last full season, the ex-Astro sported above-average Whiff% (29.2%), Barrel% (6.9%), and Hard Hit% (35.6%). However, one of his lone weaknesses was the walks. His 12.8% BB% was the highest of his nine-year career.

The 34-year-old, when healthy, boasted both a four-seamer and sinker, with the former being a near-unhittable pitch. During his 2023 campaign, opposing batters had a .094 AVG off the pitch and a 45% Whiff% on the pitch, which could hit 97 MPH.

Those numbers — for a reliever — are impressive. Graveman’s four-seamer isn’t a plus-plus mover. It had slightly above-average backspin and more arm-side run than usual. However, Graveman’s delivery is very deceptive, as he keeps the arm slot hidden well before hurling it.

KENDALL-GRAVEMAN-FB-WHIFF-2023 Via New Baseball Media

To keep hitters off-balance, Graveman will also use a sinker, changeup, and slider, along with a seldom-used curve. The sinker was a mid-90s offering used to pound the zone in, while the change and slider mixed things up.

Again, nothing that’s plus movement on Gravement. However, the veteran has the arsenal to effectively change speeds and mix things up on hitters.

Per reports, Kendall Graveman will join the Diamondbacks on a one-year deal worth $1.35MM.

Analysis

The Diamondbacks splurged this winter to get Corbin Burnes, adding a frontline starter to their already-powerful rotation that includes Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, among others. However, Arizona didn’t make a significant add to their bullpen, notable given the team lost Paul Sewald in the offseason.

Taking a shot on Graveman is a worthwhile one, given his past production and ability to slot in different roles. The 34-year-old worked as both a closer and setup man in the past.

Graveman could factor into the saves equation in Arizona. The Diamondbacks stated that it’s an open competition for the closer’s role between Justin Martinez and A.J. Puk, with Kevin Ginkel somewhat in that conversation.

Both Martinez and Puk have experience in the ninth inning, with the former being the D-Backs’ closer late last year. Given that and his plus-plus stuff, one would think Martinez would have a leg up. But, command has been a problem in the past for Martinez.

This article first appeared on New Baseball Media and was syndicated with permission.

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