Pavin Smith: , the #7 overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft, was designated for assignment after parts of seven seasons with the Diamondbacks. He posted a career .241/.325/.394 batting line with a **0.0 bWAR** across more than 1,600 plate appearances.
Ryan Waldschmidt: , Arizona's top prospect (23 years old), was recalled from Triple-A Reno. He struggled in his first MLB stint earlier this season but will get regular playing time in center field with Jordan Lawlar (hamstring) on the 10-day IL.
Historically poor production: Diamondbacks first basemen posted a combined .210/.253/.303 slash line with a **.554 OPS** across 366 plate appearances — on pace to be the worst by any MLB team since **1920**, according to a graphic shown during the team's broadcast.
Derrick Hall's admission: The team president told Arizona Sports' Bickley & Marotta: *"We have to… We've got to find different results. Not just there, everywhere."*
Why this matters: This is not just about one player. The Diamondbacks also rank near the bottom of MLB in OPS at center field (2nd-worst), designated hitter (3rd-worst), and left field (5th-worst), compounding their offensive woes.
Pavin Smith's journey with the Diamondbacks began when Arizona selected him with the 7th overall pick in the 2017 MLB Draft. After a promising 2021 rookie season in which he hit 11 home runs and 27 doubles, Smith never managed to replicate that production. His strikeout rate spiked, and despite intermittent flashes, he could never provide enough offense from a bat-first position.
Smith underwent surgery in mid-April 2026 to remove loose bodies from his left elbow, missing significant time. Upon returning, he hit just .141 with one home run across 28 games, sealing his fate.
The depth of Arizona's problem extends far beyond Smith. The team cycled through several options at first base:
Ildemaro Vargas: started the season on fire (a 24-game hit streak and .372 April average) but cratered to a .100 average in June and a .237/.633 OPS when playing first base.
Jose Fernandez: and **LuJames Groover** both struggled in limited MLB action.
Veteran Carlos Santana was signed as a free agent but was designated for assignment after an injury-plagued start.
Tyler Locklear: has spent the entire season in Triple-A.
The result? A .554 OPS from first basemen — far below the next-worst team (Cleveland at .635). This glaring weakness is Arizona's most obvious area to address ahead of the trade deadline.
MLB Trade Rumors notes that trade targets could include Nathaniel Lowe (Reds), Kody Clemens, Gavin Sheets, or Jake Burger — preferably left-handed bats. With Smith having five days to be traded or placed on waivers, his $2.25MM arbitration salary (roughly $950K remaining) could make him an intriguing option for a team willing to take a flier.
Meanwhile, Waldschmidt's promotion gives the Diamondbacks a dynamic young outfielder. He will likely start in center field, moving Max Kepler or Tommy Troy to the bench. However, his recent Triple-A numbers (.192/.250/.269 over his last 15 games) suggest he still has adjustments to make.
CEO Derrick Hall did little to quell speculation about manager Torey Lovullo's job security, noting it was "uncomfortable" having the same conversation for the fourth straight season. The Diamondbacks have been a mediocre .500 team, and with a committed payroll and roster, Hall made it clear the organization expects more.
What does "designated for assignment" mean for Pavin Smith?
The Diamondbacks have five days to either trade Smith, place him on waivers, or release him. If he clears waivers, he can accept a Triple-A assignment (which he is expected to do, as he would forfeit his remaining ~$950K salary if he elects free agency).
Who is Ryan Waldschmidt?
Ryan Waldschmidt is the Arizona Diamondbacks' top prospect, a 23-year-old outfielder selected in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft. He is known for his athleticism, speed, and defensive ability in center field.
Why are the Diamondbacks struggling so much offensively?
Arizona ranks near the bottom of MLB in OPS at first base (worst), center field (2nd-worst), designated hitter (3rd-worst), and left field (5th-worst). Injuries, underperformance from expected contributors, and inconsistent player development have all played a role.
Could the Diamondbacks make a trade before the deadline?
Yes. The July trade deadline is approaching, and Arizona's most obvious need is a left-handed-hitting first baseman. Candidates include Nathaniel Lowe (Reds), Kody Clemens, Gavin Sheets, and Jake Burger.
For Diamondbacks fans: The organization recognizes the problem at first base is critical. Expect trade activity before the deadline to address the position.
For fantasy baseball players: Monitor Ryan Waldschmidt's playing time — he could be a valuable source of steals and runs if he earns regular at-bats in center field.
For MLB trade watchers: Pavin Smith is a low-cost buy-low candidate for teams needing a left-handed bat, though his recent production is concerning.
Key takeaway: Arizona's issues extend beyond first base, but fixing that single position could be the domino that turns around a disappointing season.
The Diamondbacks' first base struggles have become one of the most talked-about storylines ahead of the 2026 trade deadline. Do you think Arizona should make a big trade to fix the position, or is it time to give young players like Tyler Locklear or Ryan Waldschmidt a longer runway?
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