Corbin Burnes has signed a lucrative six-year, $210 million deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks, marking the largest contract in the team’s history. The 2021 Cy Young Award winner will now pitch for the Diamondbacks after turning down offers from the San Francisco Giants and Toronto Blue Jays. The deal includes an opt-out clause for Burnes after two seasons.
The move comes as a surprise from Arizona, considering their competitive NL West division and recent playoff miss in 2024. Despite a strong rotation, the Diamondbacks decided to make a big splash by adding Burnes to their pitching staff alongside other notable players. The team’s willingness to spend big is commendable, especially considering their financial challenges due to the Diamond Sports Group bankruptcy.
Burnes’ decision to join the Diamondbacks over other suitors was influenced by the more favorable income tax situation in Arizona. This move has left the Giants disappointed, as they miss out on Burnes and see the starting-pitching market thinning out rapidly.
The deal ends Burnes’ one-year tenure with the Baltimore Orioles, where he proved to be a valuable asset. Over the past five years, Burnes has established himself as one of MLB’s top pitchers, showcasing his talent and resilience after a rough start in 2019. While there are concerns about his performance declining, Burnes’ track record speaks for itself, making him a valuable addition to any team.
Overall, Burnes’ signing with the Diamondbacks signals a bold move by the team to strengthen their roster and compete in a tough division. It will be interesting to see how Burnes performs in Arizona and whether he can maintain his elite status in the league.