The Arizona Diamondbacks are trying to clinch a postseason spot in the final two weeks of the regular season and are adding some help.
The Diamondbacks claimed outfielder Jesús Sánchez off waivers after he was designated for assignment by the Toronto Blue Jays. Sánchez is not having the worst season, but the Blue Jays designated him for assignment to call up Rudy Martin Jr.
Sánchez has a .734 OPS this season, but has hit much better against righties. The Diamondbacks will likely use him in a platoon role, hoping he can help them out the rest of the way. They are picking up the remainder of his salary for this season, and he is under club control for next season.
The Diamondbacks are 2 1/2 games behind the San Diego Padres for a wild card spot, so they have some ground to cover the rest of the way. They finish the season with a three-game series against the Padres, which could decide who makes the postseason.
Even if the Diamondbacks get into the dance, Sánchez won't be able to play. He is joining the organization after Sept. 1, meaning he is ineligible for postseason baseball with his new team. Regardless, he can help the Diamondbacks qualify and hopefully put on a good enough showing to have a role next year.
Sánchez has played in 679 career games and has a career .728 OPS. He has hit 81 career home runs and flashed potential at times. The Diamondbacks are hoping for the best version of him for the next two weeks.