Story perspectives

Diamondbacks Recall Lawlar Amid Pavin Smith Injury

8/30/2025

Summary

Story summary

The Arizona Diamondbacks recalled Jordan Lawlar from Triple-A Reno, starting him at third base against the Dodgers.
Manager Torey Lovullo will use Lawlar mainly against left-handed pitchers while assessing Blaze Alexander's infield versatility.
Lawlar struggled in the majors with a .129 average in 2023 and an 0-for-19 stretch earlier this season.
Pavin Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list, creating opportunities for Lawlar and Tyler Locklear.
Lawlar excelled in Triple-A with a .313 average and 11 home runs, showing promise for major league success.

History

Historical Context

The introduction of the designated hitter rule in 1975 transformed Major League Baseball by changing team strategies and player roles. The Arizona Diamondbacks, adapting to this evolution, recalled Jordan Lawlar after his impressive .313 average in Triple-A, reflecting a trend of utilizing minor league talent to address major league challenges, particularly in response to injuries like Pavin Smith's.

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Story summary

The Arizona Diamondbacks recalled Jordan Lawlar from Triple-A Reno, starting him at third base against the Dodgers.
Manager Torey Lovullo will use Lawlar mainly against left-handed pitchers while assessing Blaze Alexander's infield versatility.
Lawlar struggled in the majors with a .129 average in 2023 and an 0-for-19 stretch earlier this season.
Pavin Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list, creating opportunities for Lawlar and Tyler Locklear.
Lawlar excelled in Triple-A with a .313 average and 11 home runs, showing promise for major league success.

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