The Diamondbacks have made some strategic moves to protect their talent from the Rule 5 draft. They've added four promising players to their roster, but with only three spots available, a tough decision had to be made. Say goodbye to Tommy Henry, as the D-Backs designate him for assignment.
Henry, at 28 years old, has had a challenging year. With just 6 2/3 innings pitched in the big leagues, his performance has been inconsistent. Despite a decent showing in 2023, his ERA ballooned to 8.12 in 2025, indicating a clear issue. Undergoing Tommy John surgery in June further complicates his future with the team.
Any team can now claim Henry, but with his injury history and lack of consistent success, it's likely he'll pass through waivers unclaimed. This could open up the possibility of him becoming a free agent, allowing the D-Backs or another club to sign him on a minor league deal. Henry still has a lot of potential, with four seasons of club control remaining.
But here's where it gets interesting. The D-Backs have their eyes on some exciting prospects. Kohl Drake, acquired in the Merrill Kelly trade, has been impressing with his solid performances. With an ERA of 2.29 in 2024 and a strikeout rate of over 35% in 2025, he's a pitcher to watch. Mitch Bratt, also part of the Kelly trade, has similar potential. His impressive stats at the Double-A level, including a 29.3% strikeout rate, suggest he could make his big league debut soon.
And let's not forget Dylan Ray, a 24-year-old right-hander. Despite a tough time in Triple-A, his overall performance has been solid. With a mix of average offerings, he could be a valuable back-end starter or a versatile swingman.
Lastly, we have Jose Fernandez, an infielder with a bright future. Spending his age-21 season in Double-A, he showcased his power with 17 homers and a decent strikeout-to-walk ratio. Fernandez's athleticism and raw tools make him an exciting prospect for the big league mix, either at third base or as a utility player.
The D-Backs have made some bold moves, and it will be interesting to see how these players develop. Will Henry find a new home? Can Drake and Bratt make their mark in the big leagues? And will Fernandez's power translate to the highest level? These are the questions that will keep fans engaged as we head into the next season. What do you think? Are these moves a step in the right direction for the D-Backs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
