The Corbin Burnes sweepstakes recently ended, with the former Cy Young Award winner signing a six-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Burnes, who was rumored to be heading to the San Francisco Giants, instead joined the Diamondbacks with a contract worth $210 million and an opt-out option after the second year. This move comes as a surprise to many as Burnes is considered one of the most talented free agent pitchers still available on the market.
Burnes will be part of a strong rotation in Phoenix, joining pitchers like Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Eduardo Rodriguez. Despite not matching Stephen Strasburg’s $245 million deal, Burnes’ $35 million average annual value is the sixth-highest ever for a starting pitcher. The Giants had a standing offer to Burnes, but he ultimately decided to sign with the Diamondbacks in the hopes of securing a more favorable contract. This move will see Burnes face the Giants multiple times over the next few years.
The Diamondbacks are looking to strengthen their team to compete in the highly competitive NL West division, which includes strong teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. Burnes had an impressive season in 2024, going 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA with the Baltimore Orioles. He previously won the National League Cy Young Award in 2021 while playing for the Milwaukee Brewers. Burnes has a strong track record in the league, having been an All-Star four times and receiving Cy Young votes in the past five seasons.
As Burnes accepts his new contract with the Diamondbacks, there are still a few notable free agent pitchers available, such as Nick Pivetta and Jack Flaherty. The Giants are reportedly interested in international free agent Roki Sasaki, a 23-year-old pitcher from Japan who is expected to join a major league rotation in 2025. Sasaki had an impressive season in the NPB’s Chiba Lotte Marines in 2024, going 10-5 with a 2.35 ERA.
The pressure is on the Giants to react to Burnes’ decision, especially since they will be facing him often in the coming years. Burnes’ rejection of their offer has put them in a position to find alternative solutions to strengthen their pitching staff. The 2025 international signing period, starting on January 15, will be crucial for teams like the Giants who are looking to make significant roster moves. Burnes’ signing with the Diamondbacks marks the end of a high-stakes free agency period for one of the most sought-after pitchers in the league.
