D-Backs Secure Future: Geraldo Perdomo’s Contract Extension Explained

The Diamondbacks have signed shortstop Geraldo Perdomo to a four-year extension that will secure his spot through the 2026-29 seasons, plus an option for a fifth year. This deal is worth $45 million and allows the team to buy out his last two arbitration years, as well as two potential free agent seasons.

Perdomo has spent over three years in the major leagues, most recently agreeing to a $2.55 million salary for his initial season of arbitration. He will receive a $5 million signing bonus along with increasing salaries for the next few years: $5 million in 2026, $8 million in 2027, $11 million in 2028, and $13 million in 2029. The fifth-year option is valued at $15 million with a $3 million buyout. His future earnings could also rise if he performs well in the MVP voting. If the D-Backs choose to exercise the option, Perdomo could reach free agency at age 31.

Perdomo, a switch-hitter, has claimed the shortstop role for Arizona thanks to his solid defense and approach at the plate. He made his MLB debut in 2021, but it wasn’t until 2022 that he really got a chance to shine. While his rookie offense was lacking, he has proven to be a league-average hitter over the past two seasons.

In the first half of 2023, Perdomo excelled, earning an All-Star selection with a batting line of .271/.378/.408. However, after the All-Star break, his performance dropped significantly, resulting in a .214/.322/.297 line. Despite this dip, manager Torey Lovullo expressed confidence in him, continuing to name him the starting shortstop through last Spring Training.

Perdomo’s 2023 season began on a tough note due to a meniscus tear in his right knee, which sidelined him for the early part of the season. After surgery, he returned in June and finished strong, batting .274/.345/.380 with 20 doubles and two home runs over 361 plate appearances. His overall performance over the last two years shows a hitting line of .258/.349/.366 in nearly 900 plate appearances.

One of Perdomo’s strengths is his thoughtful batting approach. He has maintained an 11.3% walk rate while keeping his strikeout rate at a modest 16.3%. During this time, he has racked up 41 doubles and six triples, hitting only nine home runs. His approach is intriguingly effective; while he ranks low in hard contact, he is very selective, rarely swinging at pitches outside the strike zone. In fact, only Luis Arraez and Steven Kwan have a lower swinging strike rate among players with at least 500 plate appearances in the last two seasons.

Perdomo’s small-ball skills stand out, too. He led the majors in sacrifice bunts in both 2022 and 2023. Even with injuries, he still finished tied for sixth in that category last year. While he may not be the fastest player, his baserunning has been quite effective.

Defensively, Perdomo’s performance is mixed. Statcast rates him as a league-average shortstop, but reviews from other metrics vary. For instance, Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) had him below average in 2022 and 2023, but recognized him as +10 runs last year, placing him among the top shortstops in the league for that defensive measurement.

The Diamondbacks are committed to Perdomo despite having a top prospect at shortstop, Jordan Lawlar. Lawlar, who is 22 and regarded as Arizona’s best prospect, may start the upcoming season in Triple-A after a previous injury cut short his debut. Lawlar’s future could see him transition to third base, especially with Eugenio Suárez hitting free agency next offseason. For now, Perdomo, along with Ketel Marte, is signed for several more seasons.

This offseason, the Diamondbacks have increased their payroll to record levels, surpassing $195 million. This is a significant jump from last season’s $163 million. With nearly $90 million in contracts expiring next year—including key players like Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly—they have the financial flexibility to maintain a long-term commitment to Perdomo.

In summary, Perdomo’s new extension reflects the Diamondbacks’ confidence in his abilities and their strategic planning for the future.