Diamondbacks Eye Potential Goldschmidt Reunion for 2026 Season
The Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves facing a significant void at first base, and speculation is swirling about a potential reunion with one of their all-time greats. Recently, a piece from Bleacher Report has sparked excitement among fans, suggesting that former Diamondbacks All-Star Paul Goldschmidt could return to the desert for the 2026 Opening Day lineup.
Goldschmidt’s Legacy in Arizona
Paul Goldschmidt, a name synonymous with success during his tenure with the Diamondbacks, left an indelible mark on the franchise. His prowess on the field and his fan-favorite status make the idea of his return all the more tantalizing. In a recent article, Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report outlined his predictions for each MLB team’s roster, and when he reached Arizona, Goldschmidt’s name stood out as the projected starting first baseman.
The expected lineup for the Diamondbacks, as per Reuter’s predictions, includes:
SS Geraldo Perdomo
2B Ketel Marte
RF Corbin Carroll
1B Paul Goldschmidt
DH Pavin Smith
C Gabriel Moreno
LF Jake McCarthy
3B Jordan Lawlar
CF Alek Thomas
Reuter pointed out the struggles of Tyler Locklear, who has been underperforming since being acquired from the Mariners, noting that the D-backs may need to look outside their current roster for a solution at first base. He suggested, “Who better to serve as a stopgap than a franchise icon coming down the home stretch of a potential Hall of Fame career?”
The Case Against a Reunion
While the notion of Goldschmidt’s return excites many, the reality of such a move raises questions. It’s not that Goldschmidt lacks talent—his overall performance still makes him a valuable player. However, the Diamondbacks are currently navigating a different path, one that may not align with bringing back a veteran star.
The organization’s focus appears to be on youth and building a competitive team for the future. Investing in a player with a storied past, while tempting, could divert resources and attention from developing their younger talent. The long-term vision for the team might not support a reunion that, while nostalgic, may not fit into their strategic plans.
In conclusion, while Diamondbacks fans can certainly dream of a Goldschmidt comeback, the complexities of roster management and the team’s direction could complicate this potential reunion. As the 2026 season approaches, it will be interesting to see how the Diamondbacks address their needs and the role nostalgia plays in their decision-making process.
