Familiar face returns as Diamondbacks sign RHP Taylor Clarke

PHOENIX — More signings have been made to reinforce the Arizona Diamondbacks’ bullpen ahead of the 2026 season, and this time, it’s a former D-Back.

Sep 20, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Royals pitcher Taylor Clarke (45) on the mound during the eighth inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images

According to the team, right-handed pitcher Taylor Clarke has signed a one-year contract. In a corresponding move, right-handed pitcher Gus Varland was designated for assignment.

Clarke previously pitched for Arizona earlier in his MLB career, emerging as a bullpen piece during his first stint with the club. From 2019 to 2021 in the desert, he posted a 4.99 ERA, a 1.39 WHIP, and recorded 147 strikeouts.

With the Kansas City Royals in 2025, Clarke posted a 3.25 ERA, a 0.85 WHIP, and 44 strikeouts.

Aug 10, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Taylor Clarke (45) throws against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

The signing represents a low-risk move that adds experience and increases competition among the bullpen arms, giving the Snakes more options to work with as the season approaches.

The Diamondbacks have evolved since Clarke last played for the team, but his familiarity with the organization brings value to a club with postseason aspirations. He isn’t simply filling a role, but rather providing much-needed depth in an area that has been tested for Arizona over the past several seasons.

Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher Taylor Clarke (45) throws against the Oakland Athletics during the sixth inning at Chase Field in Phoenix, April 13, 2021.
Athletics Vs Diamondbacks

More than just a reunion, the move adds more attention to the Snakes and their pursuit of another postseason run. Following major decisions such as re-signing Merrill Kelly and trading for Nolan Arenado, this signing represents another step toward contention.

Arizona has needed to emphasize depth, and Clarke now has the opportunity to reestablish himself as a core contributor with a team that knows how to utilize his skill set.

While the move may not capture major headlines, it’s a signing that could prove valuable down the stretch.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde