Diamondbacks Trade for Grae Kessinger

The Arizona Diamondbacks are looking to trade starting pitcher Jordan Montgomery to free up salary for a high-profile relief pitcher, following his disappointing performance last season with a 6.23 ERA and 1.65 WHIP. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres have re-signed former top prospect Luis Patino to a minor league contract after he underwent Tommy John surgery, although he is expected to be sidelined until at least mid-next season. In another development, former Ole Miss infielder Grae Kessinger was traded from the Houston Astros to the Diamondbacks for pitching prospect Matthew Linskey, as Kessinger aims to secure a spot on Arizona's roster for the upcoming season. Kessinger struggled in his time with Houston, batting .131 in 48 games, while Linskey had a promising 2.78 ERA in the minors last season. The Diamondbacks hope these moves will bolster their roster as they aim to return to playoff contention. The Padres' signing of Patino indicates a continued interest in developing their pitching talent despite his recent challenges.