Diamondbacks’ Garrett Hampson opting out of minor league spring deal

Arizona Diamondbacks spring training invitee Garrett Hampson is opting out of his minor league contract, MLB Network’s Jon Heyman first reported on Friday.

Hampson, who would’ve landed in his native Reno with the Triple-A Aces if not for the opt-out ahead of Saturday’s deadline, had a solid spring showing, going 11-for-38 (.289) at the plate with seven RBIs.

With his departure, Ildemaro Vargas appears in line for Arizona’s utility infielder role, while Blaze Alexander rehabs from an oblique strain.

However, Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro later reported Hampson remains in contention for the role on a potential new deal.

This is just procedural – Hampson is very much in competition with Ildemaro Vargas for a utility infield spot. https://t.co/jb3Ucw9r0o

— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) March 21, 2025

Vargas has slashed .341/.408/.568 this spring. His batting average is top-5 among Diamondbacks with at least 20 at-bats, and only Corbin Carroll (four) has more than Vargas’ two home runs.

He first saw time in the majors with the Diamondbacks, debuting just before turning 26 years old in 2017. He was signed as a free agent by the St. Louis Cardinals in 2008.

The infielder played 126 games for Arizona from 2017-20, then landed back with the club for 18 games played in 2021.

Most recently, he slashed .257/.302/.354 over 234 games with the Washington Nationals from 2022-24.

Arizona will finish Cactus League play on Sunday with split-squad games against the Chicago White Sox and San Diego Padres before hosting the Cleveland Guardians for two exhibition games at Chase Field on Monday and Tuesday.

Opening Day is on Thursday, beginning a four-game series with the Chicago Cubs, when Zac Gallen will get the ball.

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