Diamondbacks Have Exclusive Negotiating Window with James McCann as MLB Free Agency Begins

Free agency officially opened today, November 3, following the conclusion of the World Series, making 137 players, including Arizona Diamondbacks catcher James McCann, eligible to sign with any team.

However, for the next five days – a period known as the “quiet period” – the Diamondbacks have exclusive negotiating rights with McCann, as well as pitchers Zac Gallen and Jalen Beeks. This provides Arizona a crucial opportunity to address a potential roster need before other teams can enter the bidding. McCann joined the Diamondbacks mid-season after beginning the year with the Atlanta Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, and quickly became a valuable contributor.

McCann finished the season hitting .260 with a .755 OPS, his best offensive numbers since 2020, and his veteran presence was praised by manager Torey Lovullo for its impact on the pitching staff. “I loved my time here,” McCann told Diamondbacks On SI’s Jack Sommers. “It’s a really good group of guys, a very talented group of guys…we were in the hunt until the last weekend of the season.” A reliable backup catcher is often a key component of successful teams, providing stability when the starter needs rest or is injured – a particularly relevant consideration given Gabriel Moreno’s injury history. You can find more information about MLB free agency at MLB.com.

The Diamondbacks’ front office, led by Mike Hazen, was reportedly encouraged to acquire McCann by ace Corbin Burnes, who had previously played with him in Baltimore. Securing McCann’s return would provide continuity and experience to a young Diamondbacks team that narrowly missed the playoffs. Zac Gallen is also a key free agent for Arizona this offseason.

The team is expected to actively engage in negotiations with McCann throughout the exclusive window, hoping to finalize a deal and avoid a potentially competitive bidding process.