D-Backs CEO Derrick Hall reveals what really happened with Paul Goldschmidt this offseason
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Burn City Sports
D-Backs CEO Derrick Hall reveals what really happened with Paul Goldschmidt this offseason
Jun 8, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; New York Yankees designated hitter Paul Goldschmidt (48) rounds the bases after hitting a home run during the first inning against the Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Wendy Lopez·Burn City Sports
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3 min read
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PHOENIX — A reunion with formerArizona Diamondbacksfan favoritePaul Goldschmidtwas a dream for many supporters, and throughout the offseason, reports suggested it could become a reality.
May 29, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA;New York Yankeesfirst baseman Paul Goldschmidt (48) jogs to first to record an out at first after fielding a ground ball againstthe Athleticsin the sixth inning at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
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However, Diamondbacks CEO Derrick Hall revealed Thursday that no negotiations ever took place, causing fans to take a second look at previous reports that suggested otherwise.
During the offseason, the D-Backs were looking for a right-handed power bat at first base. At the same time, fans began speculating about a reunion with Goldschmidt, especially asArizonawas linked toSt. LouisCardinals third basemanNolan Arenado, Goldschmidt's longtime teammate in St. Louis.
Aug 4, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (48) in action during the game between theTexas Rangersand the New York Yankees at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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Local Arizona media reported there were ongoing discussions about a reunion with the former All-Star. Arizona Sports' John Gambadoro reported in February that while the Diamondbacks were interested inCarlos Santana, the club was also in discussions with Goldschmidt.
Hall's comments, however, directly contradict the report. During an appearance on Thursday on Bickley & Marotta Mornings on Arizona Sports, Hall said the Snakes and Goldschmidt never engaged in discussions about a return to the desert, leaving fans to wonder what really happened during the offseason and whether a reunion was ever truly on the table before the club signed Santana instead.
"We never even had discussions with Goldy," Hall said. "Ken [Kendrick] and I asked several times, should we bring Goldy back?… We never even got to that point and we turned our attention to focusing those dollars on the pitchers."
Goldschmidt spent eight seasons with the D-Backs after being drafted by the organization in 2009 and became one of the cornerstones of the franchise. He was traded to the Cardinals before the 2019 season and spent six seasons in St. Louis before signing with the New York Yankees as a free agent.
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In 2026, the former Valley star has rediscovered his All-Star form in the Bronx, hitting .301 with 14 home runs, 40 RBIs and a .932 OPS.
Jul 14, 2018;Atlanta, GA, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Paul Goldschmidt (44) on third base against theAtlanta Bravesin the first inning at SunTrust Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
As for Santana, the veteran first baseman struggled during his brief stint in Arizona, collecting just two hits in 24 at-bats before suffering a strained right adductor. Despite multiple attempts to return to the major league roster, setbacks prevented a full recovery, and he was designated for assignment on June 24.
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For fans who hoped the former Arizona star would once again wear Sedona Red, Hall's comments and what ended up happening to its first base singing may be a tough pill to swallow.
