At last year’s trade deadline, and with the Arizona Diamondbacks out of contention, then-general manager Dave Stewart dealt Tyler Clippard to the New York Yankees and Brad Ziegler to the Boston Red Sox.
Over the last two months of last season, the bullpen lacked a proven set-up man and closer. Right-hander Daniel Hudson provided a veteran presence, but he is now a free agent.
Manager Torey Lovullo has young, intriguing arms at his disposal. Right-hander Jake Barrett pitched to a respectable 3.49 ERA in 59.