Arizona Diamondbacks 2026 Non-Roster Invitees: A Deep Dive
The Diamondbacks are gearing up for the 2026 season, and their non-roster invitees offer a fascinating glimpse into the team's future. This group includes a mix of promising youngsters, crafty veterans, and a player vying for their fourth season in the organization. Let's dive into the profiles of these intriguing pitchers.
Daniel Eagen: The Rising Star
Daniel Eagen is a third-round pick from 2024 who dominated High-A pitching last season. His strikeout rate of 12.2 per nine innings, including an immaculate inning, earned him the Northwest League Pitcher of the Year title. However, a reality check came in Amarillo, where he allowed five home runs in under twenty frames. If he can adapt in 2026, Eagen's rise should continue, and his interview with Jesse Friedman on the Snakes Territory YouTube channel provides valuable insights.
Junior Fernandez: The Japanese Experiment
Fernandez, a pitcher with impressive stuff, last appeared in the majors in 2022. He then ventured to Japan, but his career took a hit due to a rare injury, right distal clavicle lysis. Back in the US, he's been with the Blue Jays, Nationals, Royals, and Mets, most recently pitching four scoreless innings for Triple-A Syracuse. Statcast data reveals his sinker averaged 98.7 mph in 2022, and he struck out 57 batters over 35 AAA innings last year. Control issues, however, could be his Achilles' heel.
Tom Hatch: The Journeyman
Hatch, a veteran of six organizations, had his most active year in the majors last season, pitching 34 innings for the Twins and Royals. Despite a 5.82 ERA and 6.02 FIP, his journey continued to Japan and Korea. However, a 7.46 ERA in 22 innings in Japan and a contract nixed after his physical in Korea suggest that Hatch might be more of a depth option. A dramatic change is needed for him to see major league action in 2026.
Bryce Jarvis: The Long Reliever
Jarvis, who seemed destined for a long reliever role in 2023-24, threw 83 innings with a 3.14 ERA. However, his FIP of 5.09 and a regression to 5.73 ERA in 2025 raised red flags. Designated for assignment in December, he went unclaimed and is now outside the 40-man roster. A potential role in 2026 might involve using a starting pitcher in the long relief role, or a specialist like Jarvis.
Derek Law: The Experienced Veteran
With 322 major-league games under his belt since 2016, Derek Law is the most experienced pitcher in this group. He had a stellar 2024 campaign with a 2.60 ERA over 90 innings out of the Nationals bullpen. However, a forearm issue and subsequent surgery in 2025 will keep him sidelined for the start of the 2026 season. Proving his health will be crucial, but if he returns to his 2024 form, Law could be a valuable addition to the team.
