MLB trade rumors: Arizona Diamondbacks connected to $17 million ex Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star in free agency after Corbin Carroll injury

The Arizona Diamondbacks may need outfield help sooner than expected. Corbin Carroll fractured the hamate bone in his right hand during live batting practice on February 10 and underwent surgery.

His recovery timeline puts Opening Day at risk, leaving the club to consider short-term solutions.Michael Conforto has surfaced in early discussions. The former All-Star is still a free agent after choosing the open market in November following a difficult 2025 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. No agreement is close, but there is speculation that Arizona could explore an inexpensive deal, possibly with a third team involved, to add depth without taking on a large salary.

Corbin Carroll’s Injury Brings Immediate Questions

Corbin Carroll’s absence would test the Arizona Diamondbacks’ current outfield group of Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Alek Thomas, Pavin Smith, Jorge Barrosa, and Carroll once he returns. The team has young talent, but adding an experienced hitter could provide stability during the first weeks of the season.Michael Conforto, now 33, fits that profile. Some projections have loosely tied him to Arizona, and while talks have not advanced, his availability has kept the idea active.

A deal could include prospects or cash from another team, with the White Sox often mentioned as a possible facilitator.

A Possible Structure for a Deal

One hypothetical scenario would send a lower-level prospect such as reliever Drey Jameson to help complete the move, along with cash considerations. It would resemble smaller roster decisions like the minor-league signing of Oscar Mercado, practical and limited in risk. Conforto is projected to command roughly $6.7 million on a one-year contract.The Los Angeles Dodgers would benefit by clearing salary and adding pitching depth after moving on from him. If a third club participates, it could flip Jameson for bullpen help, keeping the transaction simple for all sides.

Why It Could Work

Arizona Diamondbacks would gain a veteran option while Carroll recovers. Michael Conforto has shown he can produce against left-handed pitching and could slot into a lineup that already features Ketel Marte and Nolan Arenado.For Conforto, the move would offer a chance to rebuild value with a competitive team and play in a more hitter-friendly environment than Dodger Stadium. The assisting club would gain financial flexibility and create space for younger outfielders, including players emerging behind Teoscar Hernández.

Key Stats Comparison

Conforto was an All-Star in 2019 and owns a career OPS above .800 against left-handed pitching, which matches a current need for Arizona.

Demographics Snapshot

At 33, Conforto would bring experience to a relatively young group while still offering power.

Pros and Cons for Arizona Diamondbacks

Pros • Adds power while Carroll is expected to miss four to ten weeks. • Affordable option who can handle platoon at-bats against lefties. • Has playoff experience from time with the Mets and Giants.Cons • His 2025 numbers raise concern about decline. • Defensive metrics show minus-five defensive runs saved since 2021. • Even a modest prospect cost carries some long-term risk.

Who Benefits?

If the move happens, Arizona Diamondbacks would address an immediate need without disrupting its long-term plans. Conforto would get a chance to reset after a down season, and the participating club could turn extra pieces into future value.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Los Angeles Dodgers predicted to add $53 million Cincinnati Reds star to bolster rotation; Roki Sasaki key trade asset?For a team expecting to compete in the NL West, the decision would be about covering a short-term gap while keeping the roster intact.