Just before the Yankees–Red Sox rivalry took center stage last week, the Arizona Diamondbacks received crushing injury news: ace pitcher Corbin Burnes will undergo Tommy John surgery and isn’t expected back until late 2026.
The timing couldn’t be worse, as this is only the first season of the $210 million contract Burnes signed this past offseason. The deal was finalized shortly after Christmas, and many Yankees fans were left puzzled as to why New York didn’t pursue the right-hander — especially at that price.
That confusion was fueled by criticism surrounding Max Fried’s $218 million contract with the Yankees, which some felt was an overpay. At the time, Burnes seemed like the superior option — younger, more durable, and signed to a slightly more team-friendly deal.
But Burnes chose the Diamondbacks for personal reasons, including family considerations and Arizona’s more favorable tax structure — a major challenge New York faces when competing for elite free agents.
Even before this injury setback, Fried had been delivering stronger performances. Now, with Burnes likely out until 2027, Fried appears to be the better long-term investment by a wide margin.
How Burnes’ Injury Impacts the Yankees’ 2025 Plans
More importantly, Burnes’ injury could alter Arizona’s approach to the 2025 season. Following a weekend sweep by the Reds, the Diamondbacks have slipped to three games below .500 and now trail the Dodgers, Padres, and Giants in the competitive NL West.
This downward trend, compounded by Burnes’ absence, might push Arizona into seller mode at the trade deadline — a scenario the Yankees could take advantage of.
Eugenio Suárez, a power-hitting third baseman on an expiring contract, could be a key target. The Yankees have an obvious need at third base, and Suárez would be a natural fit.
In addition, several other Diamondbacks players are on contracts set to expire after this season — including starters Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, slugger Josh Naylor, and relievers Shelby Miller and Jalen Beeks. With holes across their pitching staff and questions about lineup depth, the Yankees could benefit from these names being made available.
If Arizona continues to fade from playoff contention and has no plans to retain these players, a deadline sell-off seems not just possible, but likely.
While the Diamondbacks aren’t officially out of the race, their situation is growing more precarious — especially now that they’ve lost their top arm. The Yankees, meanwhile, could be poised to pounce.
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