SEATTLE SENDS SEWALD TO DIAMONDBACKS
The Arizona Diamondbacks acquired pitcher Paul Sewald from the Seattle Mariners for outfielder Dominic Canzone, and infielders Josh Rojas and Ryan Bliss.
What does it give the Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks have arguably been the surprise team of the season. They are in the middle of a battle with the Dodgers and Giants for top spot in the NL West. Adding Sewald will certainly increase their chances. He should immediately become their best reliever and take over the closer role which had been shared by multiple pitchers. Sewald's 55 career saves (21 this season) should give the Diamondbacks plenty of confidence in late-game situations. Arizona gave up three assets for a high-leverage reliever, so they clearly believe they can compete with Los Angeles and San Francisco down the stretch.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
Canzone made his MLB debut this season. He still needs to establish himself as a big-leaguer (only 15 GP), and could get that chance with Seattle. Rojas has spent his entire career in the Desert prior to this deal. He struggled this year and has been sent to Triple-A ball at times in '23, but over the course of his career he has been a solid hitter with positional versatility. He could see playing time at second and third for the Mariners. Bliss has been shooting up prospect rankings this season after dominating at Double-A ball. Seattle will probably start him in Triple-A, since Arizona recently promoted him to that level.
Fantasy impact
Sewald should continue being a valuable fantasy contributor. His 60 strikeouts in 43 innings have flown under the radar this season. With plenty of save opportunities likely coming his way, he should be a quality pickup down the stretch. Canzone and Rojas are similar. They both have to establish themselves as prominent fantasy options before they become anything more than a bench piece, at best. Bliss has the offensive/speed combination fantasy GM's should love, so keep an eye on him.
