If the Dodgers are going to reacquire Zack Greinke, the club is going to have to wait until next July's non-waiver trade deadline.
That's the earliest the Diamondbacks would even consider trading their $206.5 million right-hander, because the club hopes to contend next season, according to USA Today Sports.
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The Dodgers made an intriguing, yet unsuccessful, attempt to trade for Greinke before Wednesday's revocable waivers deadline, Fox Sports reported. Trade discussions between the two clubs were not substantive and did not advance, the report said. Los Angeles wants Greinke for protection against Clayton Kershaw's potential free agency in 2018.
Greinke, who turns 33 next month, is in the midst of a disappointing season with a 4.17 ERA and 1.24 WHIP. He is owed the highest average annual salary ($34.4 million) over the remainder of his contract.
The D-backs were supposed to be contenders this year after acquiring Greinke, pitcher Shelby Miller, shortstop Jean Segura and reliever Tyler Clippard in the offseason, but injuries and poor pitching performances have derailed those playoff hopes.
With questions about the D-backs' front office, specifically the future employment of chief baseball officer Tony La Russa and general manager Dave Stewart, another disheartening season in 2017 could realistically spell the end for Greinke's tenure in Arizona.