The Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged victorious in the highly competitive sweepstakes for former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Burnes has agreed to a monumental six-year, $210 million contract with the Diamondbacks. This marks the largest free-agent signing in franchise history, signaling Arizona’s commitment to bolstering their roster for another playoff push.
Burnes’ contract reportedly includes an opt-out clause after the second year, giving the star pitcher flexibility in his future, as first reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
The 30-year-old right-hander has been a dominant force in Major League Baseball over the past few seasons. A four-time All-Star, Burnes captured the NL Cy Young Award in 2021 while with the Milwaukee Brewers, thanks to a 2.43 ERA and 234 strikeouts that season.
He continued to deliver standout performances, leading the National League in strikeouts in 2022 with 243 and posting a stellar 2024 campaign with the Baltimore Orioles. Last season, Burnes went 15-9 with a 2.92 ERA and 181 strikeouts across 32 starts, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s premier pitchers.
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For the Diamondbacks, this acquisition is a game-changer. Coming off a World Series appearance in 2023 and an 89-win season in 2024 that narrowly missed the playoffs, Arizona has now solidified their rotation in a big way.
Burnes joins an already impressive pitching staff headlined by Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, with Brandon Pfaadt and Eduardo Rodriguez rounding out a formidable group. This move demonstrates the Dbacks’ intent to compete at the highest level in the National League.
Earlier reports suggested Burnes was seeking a massive contract in free agency, and while his final deal falls just shy of the top figures speculated, the $210 million agreement still ranks among the most lucrative for a pitcher in MLB history.
Adding to the allure of the deal is Burnes’ choice to return to his home in Scottsdale, Arizona, making this a perfect fit for both player and team.
The signing sends a strong message to the rest of the league: the Diamondbacks are serious about contending for another championship.
As the team gears up for the 2025 season, Burnes’ presence in the rotation will be a critical asset in their quest for postseason glory.
