Arizona Diamondbacks Welcome Back Taylor Clarke with One-Year Contract
The Arizona Diamondbacks made their move official through a social media announcement. They confirmed signing right-handed pitcher Taylor Clarke to a one-year major league contract. To create room on their 40-man roster, the team designated fellow pitcher Gus Varland for assignment.
Contract Details and Team Comments
While the Diamondbacks have not disclosed specific salary figures, multiple reports indicate the deal carries a base value between $1.5 million and $1.55 million. Performance incentives could potentially push the total compensation above $2 million.
Diamondbacks General Manager Mike Hazen expressed satisfaction with the acquisition. "We know the makeup and have a long history with him, so it was a good fit for us," Hazen stated. This comment highlights the organization's existing familiarity with Clarke, who began his professional career with Arizona.
Taylor Clarke's Baseball Journey
Taylor Clarke, who will turn 33 in May 2026, entered professional baseball when the Diamondbacks selected him in the third round of the 2015 MLB Draft. He played college baseball at the College of Charleston before making his major league debut with Arizona in 2019.
Clarke initially served in a swing role during his first three seasons with the Diamondbacks. From 2019 through 2021, he appeared in 78 games, making 20 starts. The shortened 2020 season saw him transition primarily to bullpen work, where he has remained for approximately five years.
Following the 2021 season, Arizona chose not to retain Clarke after he posted a 4.98 ERA across 43 appearances. He quickly secured a major league contract with the Kansas City Royals in December 2021.
Clarke's career path included stints with the Royals, a trade to the Milwaukee Brewers, and time on waivers before returning to Kansas City on a minor league deal before the 2025 season.
Surprising Non-Tender After Strong Season
On November 21, 2025, the Kansas City Royals made a surprising decision. They announced they would not tender contracts to Clarke and outfielder MJ Melendez, making both players free agents. This move came despite Clarke delivering his best statistical season.
During the 2025 campaign with Kansas City, Clarke appeared in 51 games, compiling a 1-1 record with an impressive 3.25 ERA over 55⅓ innings. He limited opposing batters to a .194 average while recording 44 strikeouts against just nine walks.
His exceptional control resulted in a minuscule 4.4% walk rate. Clarke joined an exclusive group as one of only two MLB pitchers with over 50 appearances and nine or fewer walks. The Royals opted against arbitration, which was projected around $2 million, despite his outstanding performance.
Full Circle Return to Arizona
This signing completes a circular journey for Clarke. The Diamondbacks non-tendered him after the 2021 season, he signed with Kansas City, and now returns to Arizona after the Royals chose not to tender him a contract.
With more than five years of major league service time, Clarke cannot be sent to the minors without his consent. This guarantees him a spot on the Diamondbacks' Opening Day roster. He will join relievers Ryan Thompson and Kevin Ginkel, providing experienced middle-innings support and bullpen depth.
Bullpen Considerations for 2026
The Diamondbacks' relief corps remains an area of focus as the team prepares for the 2026 season. Injuries to pitchers A.J. Puk and Justin Martinez, both recovering from Tommy John surgery, create additional uncertainty.
General Manager Mike Hazen acknowledged the bullpen situation, suggesting more additions could come before spring training. The team currently lacks established late-inning options and may need to rely on younger, less experienced pitchers initially.
Clarke brings veteran presence, proven control, and organizational familiarity to Arizona's bullpen. His addition raises the floor for the relief unit as the Diamondbacks position themselves to compete in the 2026 season.
