What happened: The Arizona Diamondbacks were active during their Monday off day, signing veteran outfielder Max Kepler to a one-year deal and trading reliever Taylor Rashi to the Minnesota Twins for cash. Kepler, 33, is currently serving an 80-game PED suspension and will be eligible to join the active roster on June 25, though he remains ineligible for 2026 postseason play. The front office also moved to quiet rumors involving Ketel Marte, clarifying that the All-Star second baseman is not on the trade block.
Why it matters: With a 34-31 record, Arizona sits in second place in the NL West and remains firmly in the hunt for a Wild Card berth. The addition of Kepler provides experienced depth for an outfield group currently missing Lourdes Gurriel Jr., while the Rashi trade clears a roster spot for recent call-up LuJames Groover. By retaining Marte despite external speculation, the organization signaled its intent to remain aggressive contenders throughout the summer.
By the numbers: Arizona enters Tuesday with a 34-31 record and a +12 run differential. Max Kepler averaged 18 home runs over his previous three seasons, while reliever Taylor Rashi exits the organization after posting a 5.40 ERA across 20 career major league innings.
What to watch: The Diamondbacks open a three-game road series against the Miami Marlins tonight, with ace Zac Gallen (3-5, 5.32 ERA) scheduled to start.