Towers: Relief help bigger target for trade

PHOENIX -- Trade rumors have linked the D-backs to a number of high-profile starting pitchers, but the team seems more likely to add bullpen help.

"I'm not as concerned probably with our starting pitching and looking externally for starting pitching as much as trying to get a bullpen arm," D-backs general manager Kevin Towers said.

The D-backs rotation has had its share of struggles during the first half, but they have gotten better performances of late and the team has a number of internal options.

First and foremost, Brandon McCarthy and Trevor Cahill will both likely be off the disabled list toward the end of July or early August.

"Both of those guys have been very effective Major League pitchers for contending teams," Towers said. "To know that we've got those guys, it's kind of like Trade Deadline guys. You get them right and in the right spot, and they're pitching with confidence, good things could happen."

In addition, the team has been pleased with the performances of young pitchers Randall Delgado and Tyler Skaggs.

Also in the D-backs' system are left-hander David Holmberg and top pitching prospect Archie Bradley at Double-A Mobile. Both of them could help if needed, as could Triple-A options Charles Brewer or Zeke Spruill.