The Arizona Diamondbacks have found a reliable arm in veteran left-hander Jalen Beeks, who has stepped up to provide a much-needed boost to the team’s bullpen. After losing key arms in Kevin Ginkel and Kendall Graveman to injuries, the D-backs were quick to address the gap by signing Beeks just before Opening Day to a one-year, $1.25 million deal on March 25.
Jalen Beeks: The Unexpected Journey to Arizona
Beeks’ path to Arizona wasn’t a straightforward one. The 31-year-old began 2024 with the Houston Astros, pitching four solid innings in spring training with a lone run allowed. However, in a surprising twist, Beeks opted out of his minor league deal with the Astros, requesting his release to pursue other opportunities. This set the stage for the Diamondbacks to swoop in and sign him just in time for the start of the season.
Veteran Experience in the Bullpen
Beeks, now entering his seventh major league season, brings invaluable veteran experience to the bullpen. Originally traded from the Boston Red Sox to the Tampa Bay Rays in 2018, Beeks spent five seasons with Tampa Bay, building a reputation as a reliable multi-inning reliever. His ability to stay composed in high-leverage situations earned him trust in pressure moments, making him a solid bullpen option for the D-backs.
A Challenging 2023 Season
While Beeks has proven himself in past seasons, 2023 was a rough year. Struggling with a 5.95 ERA, he was removed from the Rays’ 40-man roster and placed on outright waivers. After his release, Beeks continued his career with the Colorado Rockies and Pittsburgh Pirates, where he made 71 combined appearances, saving 10 games and striking out 55 batters. Despite his ERA struggles in 2023, Beeks continued to earn late-inning opportunities, demonstrating his value in high-leverage situations.
Early Season Success with Arizona
So far in 2024, Beeks has been a revelation for the Diamondbacks. Through Wednesday’s games, the left-hander has pitched 9 1/3 innings, facing 33 batters and allowing just one run. His control has been impressive, striking out eight and surrendering only three hits. Beeks’ four-seam fastball, which consistently hits the mid-90s, has paired well with his cutter and changeup, forming a formidable three-pitch arsenal.
One of Beeks’ biggest strengths this season has been his ability to keep the ball on the ground, avoiding the home run ball while limiting hard contact. Despite some struggles with walks, he has refined his pitch selection and continues to work efficiently. His dominance against left-handed batters is notable—last season, lefties managed just a .202 batting average against him, and his career mark sits at a solid .248.
A Valuable Asset for the Bullpen
As the Diamondbacks continue to manage their bullpen, Beeks has quickly become a key piece. He joins fellow left-handed relievers Joe Mantiply and A.J. Puk, giving manager Torey Lovullo more options for favorable matchups. Beeks’ ability to get outs with both his fastball and off-speed offerings has given the bullpen a much-needed boost.
The Road Ahead
Beeks’ early-season success has made him an important asset for the Diamondbacks as they navigate a crowded bullpen. With Ginkel and Graveman on the mend, the team will soon face some tough decisions about who stays and who is optioned out. However, with the unpredictable nature of bullpen needs, especially in a season where health and performance fluctuate, Beeks’ continued success could secure his spot for the entire season.
If Beeks maintains his current performance, he could remain a trusted option for Lovullo, helping the Diamondbacks maintain a strong bullpen throughout the year.
Main Photo: © Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
The post Jalen Beeks Strong Start Provides Relief for the Diamondbacks appeared first on Last Word On Baseball.