Arizona Diamondbacks Seek Solutions at First Base

The Arizona Diamondbacks are searching for answers at first base, with Pavin Smith's career WAR dropping to 0.0, and CEO Derrick Hall acknowledging the need for change.

What's happening at first base?

The Diamondbacks' first basemen have a combined OPS of .554, the worst in baseball, with Ildemaro Vargas cooling off after a hot start, and Pavin Smith struggling with a .140 batting average in 16 games at first base.

The team's lack of production at first base is a major concern, with Smith's numbers being a key indicator of the problem.

Why is it a problem for the Arizona Diamondbacks?

The Diamondbacks' struggles at first base are part of a larger issue, with the team standing 11th in the National League with a 45-47 record, and a two-game losing streak, including a 10-4 loss to the San Diego Padres on July 9, 2026.

CEO Derrick Hall recognizes the need for improvement, stating "We have to" find solutions, not just at first base, but throughout the roster.

What's next for the Arizona Diamondbacks?

The Diamondbacks face the San Diego Padres again on July 10, 2026, and will look to turn things around, with Hall emphasizing the need for different results, and manager Torey Lovullo's job potentially at risk.

The team's pitching and defense have also been inconsistent, contributing to their struggles, and Hall is looking for ways to address these issues.

And with the trade deadline approaching, the Diamondbacks may need to make some moves to shore up their roster, and get back into contention.

But for now, the focus is on finding a solution at first base, and getting Pavin Smith and Ildemaro Vargas back on track, as the team looks to climb out of 11th place in the National League.

So the Diamondbacks will look to regroup, and come out strong against the Padres, in their next game, and try to end their two-game losing streak.