Grant Holman Claimed by Diamondbacks: A Calculated Risk for the A’s Bullpen
The A’s bullpen just got a little thinner. Right-handed reliever Grant Holman is heading to the desert after being claimed off waivers by the Arizona Diamondbacks, bringing his time in Oakland’s system to a close. It’s a move that may not make headlines today, but could loom larger down the road depending on how Holman develops in his new home.
Let’s unpack what this means for both Holman and the A’s.
A Promising Arm, Lost on a Waiver Roll of the Dice
This was a classic case of roster management roulette. The A’s were clearly trying to clear a spot on the 40-man roster-likely with the hope that Holman would pass through waivers unclaimed.
That didn’t happen. Arizona saw an opportunity and pounced, and now Oakland’s bullpen depth takes a hit.
Holman, 25, isn’t just any reliever. He’s one of the more intriguing arms the A’s have developed in recent years.
Drafted in the sixth round back in 2021, he began his pro career as a starter. But after a couple of inconsistent seasons, the organization shifted him to the bullpen-a move that proved to be a turning point.
A Breakout Year That Put Him on the Map
In 2024, Holman put together a breakout season that turned heads. Splitting time between Double-A and Triple-A, he was nearly untouchable-just 3 earned runs allowed across 40 appearances.
That kind of dominance earned him a call-up to the big leagues, and while he didn’t replicate those eye-popping numbers in Oakland, the flashes were there. He showed enough to suggest he could be a real contributor at the major league level.
2025: A Setback Season
Unfortunately, momentum didn’t carry into 2025. Holman struggled early, and after some rocky outings, he was sent back to Triple-A.
That’s when things really unraveled. Rotator cuff tendinitis cut his season short, leaving him without a chance to bounce back on the field.
Injuries are part of the game, especially for young pitchers still finding their footing. But it’s worth noting that Holman’s struggles weren’t necessarily a sign of regression-more a case of bad timing and physical setbacks. For a club like the A’s, who’ve been searching for reliable bullpen arms, this feels like a move that could come back around.
What the A’s Are Giving Up
Let’s be clear: this isn’t a franchise-altering loss. But Holman was a homegrown arm with upside, and those are the types of players rebuilding teams usually try to keep around. He was likely ticketed for Triple-A to open 2026, but it wouldn’t have been surprising to see him back in the majors at some point this season.
Relievers are notoriously volatile-that’s the nature of the role. One year you’re lights out, the next you’re grinding in the minors.
But Holman had shown enough in 2024 to earn a longer look. Now, that opportunity will come in Arizona.
Looking Ahead
For the Diamondbacks, this is a low-risk, high-reward pickup. If Holman regains his form and stays healthy, they may have found themselves a valuable bullpen piece for pennies on the dollar. For the A’s, it’s a tough pill to swallow, especially if bullpen woes continue to be a storyline in 2026.
Time will tell whether this was just a minor roster shuffle or a misstep in managing young pitching talent. Either way, Holman’s departure is a reminder of how quickly things can change in a bullpen-and how slim the margin for error is when managing a 40-man roster.
The A’s will move forward, but this is one to keep an eye on. If Holman finds his groove in Arizona, it won’t be long before A’s fans are wondering what could’ve been.