Pavin Smith
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2021Antiques3211810261203216270010.2200.3130.322
2022Antiques49110000020010.1110.1110.111
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Jun 10 2024Smith was optioned to Triple-A Reno on Monday, Jody Jackson of Bally Sports Arizona reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will head to Triple-A after struggling to find consistent opportunities with the major-league roster, batting .275 with two homers, seven RBI and five runs scored over 40 total at-bats since the beginning of May. The 27-year-old will now likely get extended run with Reno and he'll almost assuredly get another shot with the Diamondbacks down the road this season. In the meantime, Christian Walker will continue to handle the lion's share of work at first base.
Jun 6 2024Smith started at first base and went 3-for-4 with a walk and a solo home run in Wednesday's 9-3 loss to San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith gave Christian Walker a break in the field and homered for a second straight game -- he walked off the Giants in the series opener. He's been successful in a part-time role and is batting .294 with an .896 OPS over 55 plate appearances. He should remain rostered by Arizona until Alek Thomas (hamstring) is ready, which could be by the end of next week. Thomas is slated to begin a rehab assignment soon, and manager Torey Lovullo told Theo Mackie of the Arizona Republic that the rehab stint could be a quick one.
Jun 4 2024Smith hit a pinch-hit, two-run home run in Monday's 4-2 win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith pinch hit for Eugenio Suarez and sent a center-cut fastball over the fence in center field for a walk-off home run. It was his second homer of the season and the first walk-off blast of his career. Smith has been relegated to the bench and pinch-hit duties mostly, but he has a knack for high-leverage moments. Per Baseball Reference's leverage indicator, the outfielder/DH owns an .871 OPS in high-leverage spots during his career.
May 29 2024Smith started in right field and went 1-for-2 with a double, an RBI and a run scored in Tuesday's 4-2 loss to Texas. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The start was Smith's first appearance of any kind since May 19 and 11th since being called up from Triple-A Reno on April 19. The lefty-batter doubled in the Diamondbacks' first run before being pinch hit for when a lefty entered the contest. Smith has a .244/.273/.415 line over 44 plate appearances.
Apr 23 2024Smith went 2-for-5 with a grand slam, a double, two additional RBI and an additional run scored during Tuesday's 14-1 win over St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After opening the season in Triple-A, Smith failed to log a hit in his first three games with the D-Backs. He made up for the slow start Tuesday, tagging reliever Zack Thompson for a two-RBI double in the fifth and a grand slam in the sixth. Smith's six runs batted in marked a career high, topping his previous best of four RBI.
Apr 21 2024Smith started at first base and went 0-for-2 in Sunday's 5-3 win over San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started in place of a resting Christian Walker, who eventually entered the game as a pinch hitter and finished up at first. Smith has appeared in all three games since being called up from Triple-A Reno on Friday, going 0-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored.
Apr 20 2024Smith entered Friday's game as a pinch hitter and finished the game in right field. He went 0-for-2 with an RBI and a run scored in a 17-1 win over San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Diamondbacks recalled Smith from Triple-A Reno on Friday after designating Jace Peterson for assignment. Smith, a first-round pick in 2017, spent parts of the previous four seasons in the majors. During that time, prospects Corbin Carroll and Alek Thomas relegated him to part-time work. Smith will serve as a left-handed bat off the bench while providing occasional breaks for the team's regular outfielders.
Apr 19 2024The Diamondbacks recalled Smith from Triple-A Reno on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has been at Triple-A since the beginning of the season and has slashed .298/.417/.456 with 14 RBI across 72 plate appearances. His hot bat will earn him a spot on the big-league roster, though it's unlikely he sees consistent playing time while in the majors. Jace Peterson was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.
Mar 22 2024The Diamondbacks optioned Smith to Triple-A Reno on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith didn't hit much this spring and had options remaining, so he finds himself on the outside looking in for an Opening Day roster spot. The 28-year-old should play regularly at Reno between first base and the outfield.
Mar 4 2024Smith started at first base and went 0-for-2 with a walk in Sunday's spring game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started at first for the second time in the last three games, as the Diamondbacks get by without Christian Walker (hand), who could return Tuesday. Smith, who played partial seasons at the major-league level in 2022 and 2023, could be in for a similar role in 2024. He was left off the latest projected roster assembled by Steve Gilbert of MLB.com. His most logical path to the Opening Day roster would be as a backup at first base, but Arizona may prefer a utility player, like Kevin Newman, Jace Peterson (wrist) or Emmanuel Rivera to cover there when Walker needs a breather. Smith is 3-for-13 with two RBI through five Cactus League games.
Oct 3 2023Smith is on the roster for the Diamondbacks' NL Wild Card Series matchup against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith slashed just .188/.317/.325 across 228 major-league plate appearances during the 2023 regular season, but he'll give the Diamondbacks a bit of extra left-handed thump off the bench in their best-of-three series versus Milwaukee. Arizona is carrying 14 position players and 12 pitchers for the first round of the postseason.
Sep 12 2023Smith was optioned Tuesday to Triple-A Reno, John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports 98.7 FM reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 1-for-7 with three walks and two strikeouts during his 11-day stay with the Diamondbacks and is slashing just .188/.317/.325 across 228 total major-league plate appearances this year. Jake McCarthy has been recalled from Reno in a corresponding move.
Sep 4 2023Smith started at first base and went 0-for-2 in Sunday's 8-5 loss to Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith made his first start since the Diamondbacks recalled him for the September roster expansion. Both plate appearances came against right-hander Jack Flaherty, and Smith was removed for a pinch hitter once a lefty reliever entered. The lefty-swinging Smith could spot in against right-handers at times during the final month, but he's not part of a platoon situation where fantasy managers could count on him being in a starting lineup.
Sep 1 2023The Diamondbacks recalled Smith from Triple-A Reno on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith is slashing .297/.419/.457 with 32 RBI since being optioned to Triple-A at the end of June and will now rejoin the active roster as it expands from 26 to 28 players. Smith will provide Arizona with a bench bat down the stretch and, he is capable of playing in the outfield and at first base.
Jun 30 2023Smith was optioned to Triple-A Reno on Friday, Theo Mackie of The Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will head to Triple-A in the midst of a cold spell at the plate, batting .130 with two homers, eight RBI, eight runs scored and 16 strikeouts over 69 at-bats in 21 games during June. He'll head to Reno and look to get right while Kyle Lewis was called up to replace Smith on major-league roster Friday.
Jun 25 2023Smith went 0-for-5 in Saturday's 7-6 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith's average dropped to .196 following the game. His last hit came June 17, and he's 3-for-29 (.107) over his last 10 games. Smith, who has managed to grind out eight walks during the slump, is batting just .169 since the beginning of May.
Jun 22 2023Smith is not in Thursday's lineup against the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started against righties for four straight games from June 15-18, but he has sat against three of the last four righties Arizona has faced, so it would seem he is falling into a bench role. Alek Thomas, whose playing time is trending up, gets the start in the outfield while Ketel Marte gets the nod at designated hitter.
Jun 20 2023Smith is absent from the lineup Tuesday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Corbin Carroll, Alek Thomas and Jake McCarthy will start across the outfield while Lourdes Gurriel takes a turn as the Diamondbacks' designated hitter. Smith had a decent showing over the weekend against Cleveland but is slashing just .161/.266/.268 in 65 plate appearances since the beginning of June.
Jun 19 2023Smith is not in the starting lineup Monday versus the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will get a breather after he went 3-for-10 with an RBI and a run scored over the three-game series with Cleveland. Jake McCarthy will slide over to right field while Alek Thomas draws the start in center and bats eighth in the opener in Milwaukee.
Jun 18 2023Smith batted sixth and went 2-for-4 in Saturday's 6-3 win over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A day after he was given a vote of confidence as a leadoff hitter from manager Torey Lovullo, Smith was dropped to the six hole Saturday. Since May 27, he'd been the primary leadoff batter against right-handers but was dropped against Cleveland righty Shane Bieber. Smith's numbers atop the order (.148/.258/.333) don't support his continued use in that role, but Lovullo sounded optimistic when speaking with Eli McKown of the Arizona Republic on Friday. Geraldo Perdomo moved from the lower third of the order and hit leadoff Saturday.
Jun 17 2023Smith went 1-for-3 with two walks and an RBI in Friday's 5-1 win over the Guardians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith entered the game on an 0-for-10 run, which expanded to 0-for-12 before his sixth-inning single plated a run. He batted leadoff once again, which he's regularly done since May 27, and received a vote of confidence in that role from manager Torey Lovullo prior to Friday's game, Eli McKown of Arizona Republic reports. "I don't want to run from the success that he's had," Lovullo said pregame. "I know that he's very capable of getting a great run." Despite the manager's confidence, Smith is batting just .148/.248/.221 from the leadoff spot.
Jun 11 2023Smith went 2-for-4 with a two-run homer in Sunday's win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith gave the Diamondbacks a 2-1 lead with his two-run shot off Joey Wentz. It's his seventh homer of the season and his first against a lefty. Smith had been stuck in a 3-for-29 (.103) slump coming into Sunday's contest. He's now slashing .209./316/.385 with 27 RBI and 23 runs scored through 172 plate appearances this season while mostly platooning against right-handing pitching.
Jun 6 2023Smith went 2-for-6 with a two-run homer and an additional RBI in Tuesday's win over the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After going hitless (0-for-11) across his last three appearances, Smith rattled off a pair of hits Tuesday, highlighted by a seventh-inning long ball off Chad Kuhl. Though Smith has struggled atop the Arizona lineup (.147 AVG) so far, he should be expected to move back toward his season average of .212 and provide considerable fantasy value as the leadoff man for MLB's sixth highest scoring offense.
Jun 4 2023Smith batted leadoff and went 0-for-4 in Saturday's 5-2 loss to Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was back in the lineup after getting a day off Friday. He was also back at leadoff with Arizona facing right-hander Spencer Strider. The leadoff experiment started a couple of weeks ago and has produced mixed results. Smith is 5-for-30 (.167) with five walks (.286 OBP) in eight games atop the order, but the Diamondbacks have won six of those eight contests.
Jun 2 2023Smith is not in the starting lineup Friday versus Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will get a day off after he went 3-for-8 with a homer, a double, four RBI and three runs scored while drawing four walks and striking out twice in the team's series with Colorado. Ketel Marte will slot in at designated hitter while Nick Ahmed enters the lineup at shortstop and bats eighth in the series opener with Atlanta.
Jun 1 2023Smith went 2-for-2 with three walks, a double, one RBI and two runs scored in Wednesday's 6-0 win over Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith finally looked like a leadoff hitter Wednesday, reaching base five times, equaling the number of times he reached base safely over the previous eight contests as Arizona's leadoff batter. In nine games atop the order, Smith is 5-for-29 with five walks. The lefty hitter should be back there once again Thursday against Colorado right-hander Connor Seabold.
May 31 2023Smith is hitting leadoff again Wednesday against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has batted just .212 with a .315 on-base percentage through 39 games (130 plate appearances) this season, but he's been at leadoff in each of his last four starts and seems to be the Diamondbacks' preferred option for that role against right-handed pitching. Colorado is throwing righty Dinelson Lamet on Wednesday.
May 29 2023Smith went 1-for-3 with a three-run home run and a walk in a 7-5 win against the Rockies on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith's lone hit of the game was a big one, as his 426-foot three-run shot in the second inning gave the Diamondbacks a lead that they did not relinquish. The long ball snapped a four-game hitless stretch for Smith during which he had gone 0-for-14. Despite the big blast Monday, the 27-year-old is batting a paltry .104 over his past 14 contests. On the plus side, three of his five hits during that span have left the park.
May 26 2023Smith isn't in the Diamondbacks' lineup Friday against the Red Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will begin Friday's contest in the dugout while the Red Sox prepare to start the game with southpaw Chris Sale on the mound. In Smith's place, Evan Longoria will serve as the DH and bat fifth.
May 23 2023Smith is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Evan Longoria will take a turn at designated hitter and bat sixth versus the Phillies and left-hander Matt Strahm. Lourdes Gurriel, Dominic Fletcher and Corbin Carroll are starting across the outfield.
May 22 2023Smith is in the leadoff spot again for the Diamondbacks on Monday in Philadelphia. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second game in a row that Smith has hit leadoff, as it appears it will be the new setup for Arizona at least against right-handed pitching. Josh Rojas had been the team's regular leadoff man versus righties but will again be hitting sixth in this one.
May 20 2023Smith went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in Saturday's 4-3 victory over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Smith was retired by Mitch Keller in each of his first two plate appearances, Smith had the most important swing of the day, taking reliever Robert Stephenson yard for a two-run long shot that plated Lourdes Gurriel to give the Diamondbacks a one-run advantage. The homer was Smith's first since April 19 (23 games) and just his third of the year. In his last six appearances, Smith has hit just 2-for-21 (.095) with six strikeouts.
May 9 2023Smith is not in the lineup Tuesday against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Arizona will go with a right-heavy lineup with left-hander Jesus Luzardo on the mound for Miami. Lourdes Gurriel is in left field, Corbin Carroll is in center and Dominic Fletcher is in right. Emmanuel Rivera will serve as the designated hitter.
May 7 2023Smith walked off the Nationals with a pinch-hit walk in the bottom of the ninth inning of Saturday's 8-7 win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He entered as a pinch hitter for Gabriel Moreno and walked in Christian Walker for the win. Smith, who initially found success upon his callup from Triple-A Reno, entered Saturday's contest with just one hit over his last 18 at-bats. He's still a lineup mainstay against righties, but a prolonged slump could change that.
May 6 2023Smith will be on the bench against lefty MacKenzie Gore and the Nationals on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has shown more this season that he'd previously shown at the big-league level, slashing .260/.373/.440, though that comes in a small sample of 59 plate appearances. That's earned him an increasing role, as he's started against each of the last eight righties the Diamondbacks have faced, but he's been in the lineup just once against a southpaw this season.
May 3 2023Smith is out of the lineup Wednesday against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty-hitting Smith will take a seat with southpaw Andrew Heaney on the mound for Texas. Emmanuel Rivera is hitting second and serving as Arizona's designated hitter in Smith's absence.
Apr 28 2023Smith is out of the lineup Friday against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Emmanuel Rivera is serving as Arizona's designated hitter and batting second with left-hander Kyle Freeland getting the start for Colorado. Smith boasts an overall .353/.463/.618 batting line on the season but has logged only five plate appearances against southpaws up to this point.
Mar 26 2023Smith was optioned to Triple-A Reno by the Diamondbacks on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was sidelined for a large portion of the Cactus League due to back spasms, and it's possible that played a factor in the demotion. The 2017 first-round pick registered a .778 OPS in 27 plate appearances before being sent down. Smith will likely be an up-and-down option for Arizona in the 2023 campaign.
Mar 12 2023Smith started at designated hitter and went 0-for-3 in Saturday's spring game against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith returned from a short absence due to back spams. He's competing for a bench spot with Kyle Lewis and Emmanuel Rivera.
Mar 11 2023Smith (back) will bat sixth and serve as the designated hitter Saturday against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith hasn't played in a week due to back spasms. Reports from Thursday indicated he'd be back over the weekend, and that will indeed be the case. He'll compete for a bench spot over the next couple weeks.
Mar 9 2023Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo said Smith (back) is expected to return to action this weekend, Theo Mackie of the Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith missed the last few days after experiencing back spams. The left-handed hitter has begun to take batting practice at-bats. In a lineup that already tilts lefty, Smith is competing with righty-swingers Kyle Lewis and Emmanuel Rivera for a bench spot.
Mar 5 2023Smith was removed from Saturday's spring game against San Diego with back spasms. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith, who started in right field, singled and scored in his lone plate appearance in the bottom of the second inning before being removed in the third. He's considered day-to-day, and the injury does not appear to be a serious setback.
Feb 26 2023Smith went 2-for-3 with a two-run home run and a second run scored in Sunday's spring game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith wants to leave a disappointing 2022 in the past. He had a .220/.300/.367 line over 75 games and was demoted to Triple-A, where he hurt his wrist diving for a ball in his second game with the Aces and didn't return until the final two weeks of September. The 27-year-old lefty batter told Steve Gilbert of MLB.com that the frustration wore on him, and that he kept tinkering with his approach. Smith made up for some lost at-bats and worked on consistency at winter ball in the Dominican Republic, posting a .920 OPS in 15 games. He started at first base Sunday, but that position belongs to Christian Walker, so he'll have to fight for a spot as a fifth outfielder, designated hitter and lefty bat off the bench. Smith is battling Kyle Lewis and Emmanuel Rivera for a reserve spot.
Oct 1 2022Smith isn't starting Saturday against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started the last five games and went 5-for-18 with two doubles, three runs, two RBI, two walks and two strikeouts. Stone Garrett will serve as the designated hitter and leadoff Saturday.
Sep 28 2022Smith started at designated hitter and went 1-for-3 with a walk in Tuesday's 10-2 loss to Houston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has appeared in all four games since being activated from the injured list, including the last three as a starter -- twice against righties and once against a lefty -- and hit safely in all four contests. The demotion of Alek Thomas has created a path to at-bats for Smith, who could use the plate appearances after missing several months due to a fractured wrist. The 26-year-old outfielder/first baseman/DH is 5-for-12 with two doubles, two RBI and a run scored since coming off the IL.
Sep 25 2022Smith started at designated hitter and went 2-for-4 with a run scored in Saturday's 5-2 win over the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith led off the bottom of the fourth inning with a single, which ignited a five-run explosion after the Giants had gone ahead in the top of the frame. Smith was recently added to the roster following a lengthy rehab of a fractured wrist. He's filling in for Jake McCarthy (bereavement) for now but will remain on board when McCarthy returns.
Sep 24 2022Smith went 1-for-2 in Friday's 6-5 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was brought back to the majors after several months rehabbing a fractured right wrist following a July demotion to Triple-A Reno. He entered Friday's game as a pinch hitter and stayed in the game to DH. He'll get opportunities while Jake McCarthy is on the bereavement list, and Arizona manager Torey Lovullo told Jose M. Romero of the Arizona Republic that Smith will remain with the Diamondbacks even after McCarthy returns. Smith adds another lefty bat to a lefty-dominant roster and could spell existing starters in the outfield or fill in at first base for Christian Walker.
Sep 23 2022Smith (wrist) was activated off the 60-day injured list and promoted from Triple-A Reno on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has played in 65 games for Arizona this season while slashing .207/.290/.362 and racking up 31 RBI. He will join the D-backs' active roster following the placement of Jake McCarthy on the bereavement list. Smith will likely serve as a depth piece at first base and in the outfield while he remains in Arizona.
Jul 6 2022Smith was placed on the 7-day injured list at Triple-A Reno on Wednesday with a fractured right wrist, Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old was demoted to Reno over the weekend and sustained the broken wrist in only his second game with the affiliate. Smith has a non-displaced fracture and is also dealing with some ligament damage, and he's expected to be sidelined for at least 6-to-8 weeks.
Jul 2 2022Smith was optioned to Triple-A Reno on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old lost out on regular at-bats over the last week and a half since Ketel Marte has been limited to serving as the designated hitter. Smith should see more playing time in the minors, while Cooper Hummel was recalled to take his place on the active roster.
Jun 29 2022Smith isn't starting Wednesday against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Although right-hander Mike Clevinger is on the mound for San Diego on Wednesday, Smith will retreat to the bench for the fourth time in the last five games. Ketel Marte is serving as the designated hitter while Buddy Kennedy starts at the keystone.
Jun 28 2022Smith will sit against lefty Sean Manaea and the Padres on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was close to a true everyday player early in the season but has now been on the bench against the last four southpaws the Diamondbacks have faced. He owns a 61 wRC+ against lefties over the course of his career and a 102 wRC+ against righties, so avoiding same-sided pitching may be good for him.
Jun 26 2022Smith went 4-for-5 with three RBI in Sunday's 11-7 win over the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Ketel Marte's continued presence as the designated hitter has cut into Smith's playing time lately. He made a case to get in the lineup more with four hits, all singles, including a go-ahead RBI knock in the sixth inning to spark Arizona's five-run rally. Smith has gone 7-for-16 (.438) in his last four contests, but he's slashing a meager .207/.288/.362 with nine home runs, 31 RBI, 20 runs scored and a stolen base in 64 games overall. Once Marte is able to play at second base, Smith should be able to resume his regular role as the primary DH.
Jun 25 2022Smith isn't in the lineup Saturday against the Tigers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 3-for-23 with a homer, three runs, two RBI, two walks and two strikeouts over his last six games, and he'll take a seat for the third time in the last four matchups. Ketel Marte is serving as the designated hitter while Buddy Kennedy starts at the keystone.
Jun 24 2022Smith isn't starting Friday against Detroit. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 0-for-4 with a run and a walk in Wednesday's loss to the Padres, and he'll be out of the lineup for the second time in the last three games. Ketel Marte is serving as the designated hitter while Jake Hagers starts at the keystone.
Jun 21 2022Smith will sit Tuesday against San Diego. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has three hits across his last two games, though that follows a seven-game stretch in which he went 0-for-21. Ketel Marte (hamstring) will return to the lineup as the designated hitter Tuesday while Christian Walker starts at first base.
Jun 19 2022Smith went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in Sunday's 7-1 win over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started at first base Sunday, allowing Christian Walker to rest his legs as the designated hitter. In the fifth inning, Smith swatted the third of Arizona's four homers in the contest. Over his last 22 games, he's gone a meager 10-for-77 (.130) while losing out on an everyday job with the emergence of Alek Thomas in center field. Smith is slashing just .194/.274/.358 with nine long balls, 28 RBI, 19 runs scored, a stolen base and six doubles through 61 contests. With Daulton Varsho picking up time in right field and prospect Buddy Kennedy challenging for playing time as the designated hitter, Smith's role could further shrink if he can't get his bat going.
Jun 17 2022Smith isn't starting Friday's game against the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 0-for-18 with a run, an RBI, a walk and two strikeouts over his last six games and will get a breather Friday. Buddy Kennedy is serving as the designated hitter and batting sixth.
Jun 14 2022Smith will see his plate appearances cut back after Arizona manager Torey Lovullo announced that Daulton Varsho will become the team's primary right fielder, as reported by Steve Gilbert of MLB.com. Smith, who was not in the starting lineup for the second time in four games Monday, went 0-for-1 as a pinch hitter and played right field for the final inning of a 5-4 loss to the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Lovullo's decision to go with Alek Thomas in center field and Varsho in right puts a damper on Smith's at-bats. He was already being crowded by Jake McCarthy's roster presence and will be part of the mix at designated hitter and fill in at first base for Christian Walker. Smith, who has five hits over his last 51 at-bats (.098), is slashing .200/.286/.362 with eight home runs and 26 RBI over 210 plate appearances.
Jun 13 2022Smith isn't starting Monday's game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will get a breather after he went 0-for-7 with a walk and a strikeout over the last two games. Daulton Varsho is starting in right field while Jake McCarthy serves as the designated hitter.
Jun 10 2022Smith is out of the lineup for Friday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith clubbed a solo homer Thursday but has a .495 OPS through seven games in June and will take a seat Friday even though Philadelphia is sending righty Kyle Gibson to the mound. Daulton Varsho will rest his legs at designated hitter while Jose Herrera works behind the plate.
Jun 9 2022Smith went 1-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk and two runs scored Thursday against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith took Tyler Mahle yard in the fifth inning to record his eighth home run of the season. He's homered five times in his last 16 games, also racking up 11 RBI and eight runs scored in that span. Overall, Smith has maintained a .210/.295/.381 line across 200 plate appearances on the season.
Jun 6 2022Smith isn't starting Monday against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started in the last six games and hit just .136 with a homer, a double, four RBI and two runs during that time. Daulton Varsho will serve as the designated hitter while Jose Herrera starts behind the plate Monday.
May 30 2022Smith went 1-for-4 with a three-run home run in Monday's 6-2 victory against the Braves. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith had only one hit in the game, but it was a big one. The 26-year-old smacked a 417-foot three-run shot to right field off Spencer Strider in the first inning that accounted for half of Arizona's run output. Smith has gone deep four times in his past eight games, and he already has seven homers on the campaign after collecting 11 long balls over 545 plate appearances last season.
May 29 2022Smith is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: With southpaw Tyler Anderson on the hill for the Dodgers, the lefty-hitting Smith will be the odd man out of the starting nine. Smith had started in each of the Diamondbacks' last six games, going 5-for-21 with two home runs, five walks, five RBI and four runs.
May 28 2022Smith was added to the lineup for Saturday's game against the Dodgers and will bat second while serving as the the designated hitter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was set for a day off but will instead be in the lineup in place of Daulton Varsho, who was scratched the day after he left Friday's series opener due to shoulder soreness. Smith started the season slowly but has looked better over his last 10 games, slashing .265/.359/.529 with three homers, though he's also struck out 33.3 percent of the time over that stretch.
May 26 2022Smith recently incorporated a small stride in his swing mechanics, which helped the outfielder emerge from a slump, Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The mechanical tweak -- picking up his right foot and striding forward -- was something Smith worked on with the help of Arizona's strength coach Vaughn Robinson and assistant hitting coach Rick Short. It was a blending of philosophies, marrying traditional hitting instruction with ways to optimize movement patterns. "It's a collaborative effort. We bounce ideas off each other and we all kind of come up with a program. It was a collaborative effort and it helped sync Pavin back up. I think he's feeling better," Short said. The collaboration worked for Smith, who said he felt lost at the plate a week ago, like he was falling away from the plate while swinging. Since incorporating the small stride step, he's hit three home runs over the last four games.
May 25 2022Smith served as the designated hitter and went 1-for-4 with a walk and a two-run home run in Tuesday's 8-6 win over the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith provided the winning shot, capping off a five-run sixth inning with his sixth home run and second in as many days. He's facing a challenge for at-bats in right field from Jake McCarthy, who's started four of the last five games there, and he appears to have responded by going 5-for-13 with three home runs over the last four games. When not in right field, Smith could get in the lineup as a DH or first baseman. Also, manager Torey Lovullo likes to play matchups based on the handedness of a pitcher, so Smith often subs into games that he does not start.
May 23 2022Smith went 1-for-3 with a two-run home run, two walks and three total runs in a 9-5 victory against the Royals on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kansas City exploded out of the gate with three first-inning homers, but the Diamondbacks responded with a pair of long balls of their own in the bottom of the frame. Smith hit the first of those long balls, crushing a ball 444 feet to right field to net two runs. The homer was Smith's second in his past three games and fifth overall this season.
May 22 2022Smith went 1-for-2 with a solo home run in Saturday's 7-6 extra-inning win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith got the ball rolling in the eighth inning with a pinch-hit, leadoff home run off Scott Effross, and the Diamondbacks followed with three more runs to tie the game. Smith was out of the lineup for a second straight day while Jake McCarthy slotted in at right field. For Smith, the homer was his fourth of the season and just his seventh hit over the last 47 at-bats (.149). Arizona manager Torey Lovullo may let McCarthy's hot bat stay in the lineup -- he's 5-for-9 since being called up -- but it's uncertain if Smith is permanently in a backup role.
May 21 2022Smith isn't starting Saturday against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has gone just 3-for-19 with three RBI, a run and nine strikeouts over his last five games, and he'll be out of the lineup for a second straight matchup. Jake McCarthy will start in right field and bat fifth.
May 20 2022Smith is out of the lineup for Friday's game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started the past nine games but had a .406 OPS and 42.9 percent strikeout rate during that stretch, and he'll receive Friday off with righty Kyle Hendricks pitching for Chicago. Jake McCarthy will start in right field and bat sixth.
May 10 2022Smith is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll be one of four lefty-hitting regulars taking a seat Tuesday with southpaw Jesus Luzardo on the hill for Miami. The righty-hitting Jordan Luplow checks in for Smith in right field.
May 4 2022Smith went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run during Wednesday's 8-7 win over the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old delivered a solo homer during Tuesday's win over Miami, and he came through again Wednesday in the clutch with a two-run shot in the top of the ninth inning. Smith didn't homer through his first 18 games of the season, but he's 6-for-21 with three home runs and seven RBI across his past six contests.
May 2 2022Smith is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Marlins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty-hitting Smith will bow out of the lineup against a right-handed starting pitcher (Pablo Lopez) as the Diamondbacks look to make room in the outfield for the hot-hitting Jordan Luplow, who popped two home runs in Sunday's 7-5 loss to the Cardinals. Smith doesn't look in imminent danger of losing hold of a strong-side platoon role, as he's been one of the more productive hitters in a listless Arizona lineup. His .332 wOBA is the best mark among all Diamondbacks hitters with at least 25 plate appearances on the campaign.
May 1 2022Smith batted leadoff and went 1-for-3 with a stolen base in Saturday's 2-0 win over St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Speed is not Smith's game -- he had just two steals in 157 career games entering this season -- so maybe batting leadoff gave him the confidence to use his wheels. A recent stretch of consistently getting on base moved him up the order to the two hole, but Smith made his season debut at leadoff with Daulton Varsho getting the day off. It was the 29th start of his career atop an order. The lefty-hitting Smith is typically in the lineup against righties with occasional starts against southpaws. He currently leads Arizona's qualified batters with a .276 average, .377 OBP and .774 OPS.
Apr 24 2022Smith is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 26-year-old started the past six games and will receive Sunday off despite the fact righty Tylor Megill is pitching for the Mets. Smith has come on strong of late, going 8-for-17 with three doubles, two walks, two RBI and a run over his past five contests. Jake McCarthy will start in right field in his absence.
Apr 20 2022Smith went 3-for-4 with a double in the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against Washington. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite the Nationals rolling out right-handers in both games, Smith was on the bench for the afternoon affair while Jake McCarthy got the start in right field. Smith, who walked as a pinch hitter in the first game, resumed his role as the team's primary right fielder for the evening contest and delivered his second multi-hit performance in nine starts. With a .241 batting average, he's a rare breed in the Diamondbacks' lineup in that he's just one of three batters with an average above .200.
Apr 19 2022Smith is out of the lineup for the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader with the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will presumably be back in the lineup for the nightcap, but he'll see a streak of five straight starts come to an end by taking a seat in the front end of the twin bill. With Smith on the bench, Jake McCarthy receives a turn in right field.
Apr 13 2022Smith went 2-for-4 with a run scored in Wednesday's 3-2 extra-inning win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was in an 0-for-9 slump before a second-inning single that led to a run scored. The lefty-hitting outfielder is usually in the lineup against pitchers of either hand and had both hits off Houston lefty Framber Valdez.
Apr 10 2022Smith is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith is 1-for-8 with two walks through the first three games of the season and will head to the bench for Sunday's contest. Jake McCarthy will start in right field and bat eighth in his place.
Apr 8 2022Smith went 1-for-3 with two walks in Thursday's 4-2 win over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Along with Seth Beer, who hit a three-run walkoff home run, Smith was a bright spot in a lineup that could do little against starter Yu Darvish. Smith is not the fleetest of foot, having come up through the system as a first baseman despite getting the start in right field Thursday, so after a ninth-inning walk, he was replaced by pinch runner Jake McCarthy, who came around to score on Beer's blast.
Apr 2 2022Smith went 1-for-2 with a solo home run in Friday's spring training game against the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith launched his first Cactus League homer in the fourth inning off Chicago starter Kyle Hendricks, one of three blasts Arizona hit in that inning. He played all over the outfield in 2021 out of necessity, which exposed him defensively in positions at which he did not have a lot of experience. As such, the Diamondbacks plan to limit him to right field and first base in 2022. Thus far in spring training, he's played five in right, two at first base and one as the designated hitter. He's popped up in multiple spots in the batting order this spring, but Smith will likely slot in at fifth or sixth most games.
Mar 17 2022Arizona general manager Mike Hazen said Wednesday that Smith will primarily play in right field and at first base in 2022, Steve Gilbert of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was moved around last season out of need, adding left field (15 games) and center field (38 games) to his repertoire. However, in a post-season autopsy of 2021, the club noticed considerable defensive lapses, which led to the conclusion that he should stick to one side of the field.
Oct 3 2021Smith is not in the lineup Sunday against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old will take a seat for the second time in the past three games as Christian Walker will start at first base in Game 162. Smith may still make an appearance off the bench, and he'll head into the finale with a .733 OPS, 11 homers, 27 doubles, 49 RBI and 68 runs in 544 plate appearances.
Oct 1 2021Smith is not in the lineup Friday against the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a walk Thursday but finds himself on the bench for the second time in the past three days despite the fact a right-hander, Jon Gray, is pitching for Colorado. Christian Walker will start at first base Friday.
Sep 30 2021Smith went 3-for-4 with an RBI and a walk in Thursday's 5-4 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith singled home a run as part of a three-run first inning, singled in the third, walked in the seventh and singled in the ninth for his second game reaching base four times all season. The 25-year-old had been a bit cold of late, going 2-for-16 over his last seven games, though he's still slashing a decent .265/.323/.401 in 142 games this year.
Sep 29 2021Smith isn't starting Wednesday's game against San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will be on the bench for the third time in the last four games with left-hander Alex Wood on the mound for the Giants. Christian Walker will start at first base and bat fifth.
Sep 26 2021Smith will sit Sunday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith sits for the second game in a row as the Diamondbacks face another lefty in Julio Urias. Christian Walker starts at first base.
Sep 22 2021Smith is out of the lineup Wednesday against Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith sat out Friday's game after being hit by a pitch on his right elbow, but he started the past four games and went 3-for-15 with a home run, a double and three RBI during that four-game stretch. Christian Walker will take over at first base for Arizona.
Sep 18 2021Smith is starting in right field and hitting seventh Saturday against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was out of Friday's lineup while dealing with pain in his right elbow after being hit by a pitch in Wednesday's game. He'll aim to improve on his .182/.280/.318 line across his last 10 games.
Sep 17 2021Smith remains on the bench for Friday's game against the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith finds himself on the bench for the fourth time in five games. His previous three starts came against lefties, but this one will come against righty Brandon Bielak. Christian Walker will make another start at first base.
Sep 15 2021Smith is not in the lineup Wednesday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith is 4-for-22 in his past nine games and will head to the bench with lefty Julio Urias on the mound for Los Angeles. Christian Walker will receive the start at first base Wednesday.
Sep 13 2021Smith isn't starting Monday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has gone 1-for-9 with an RBI and three strikeouts in his last three appearances, and he'll head to the bench for a second straight game. Christian Walker will start at first base and bat fourth.
Sep 12 2021Smith will sit for Sunday's game in Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith hits the bench even with an extra lineup spot available under American League rules. Christian Walker starts at first base while Seth Beer serves as the designated hitter.
Sep 8 2021Smith isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith recorded extra-base hits in each of the last two games and went 3-for-7 with a triple, a double, a run and an RBI during that time. Henry Ramos will start in right field and bat fifth.
Sep 6 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a walk, a double, an RBI and a run scored in Sunday's 10-4 loss to Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith returned to the starting lineup after being held out against a pair of left-handers Friday and Saturday. The lefty-hitting Smith has a .619 OPS against southpaws and .772 against righties. Manager Torey Lovullo has been consistent all season with using matchups like this, and that practice should continue as he evaluates several young players, some of whom hit from the right side, that have been added within the last month. Smith has done enough this season to warrant a role on the Diamondbacks in 2022.
Sep 4 2021Smith isn't starting Saturday against Seattle. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will be out of the lineup for a second straight contest after he went 0-for-2 with a strikeout off the bench Friday. Stuart Fairchild will start in right field and bat eighth.
Sep 3 2021Smith isn't in the lineup for Friday's game against the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will get a breather after he went 3-for-4 with a double, two runs and an RBI in Wednesday's win over the Padres. Josh Rojas will shift to right field while Andrew Young starts at second base.
Sep 2 2021Smith went 3-for-4 with a double, two runs scored an RBI in Wednesday's 8-3 win over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith doubled in the third to get his squad on the board and later came around to score as part of a six-run inning for the Diamondbacks. He singled his next two times up and came around to score after being hit by a pitch his final time at the plate. It was the 25-year-old's first multi-hit effort since Aug. 20, as he raised his slash line to .270/.326/.406 with 37 extra-base hits, 43 RBI, 62 runs scored, a steal and 34:90 BB:K over 479 plate appearances.
Aug 29 2021Smith is out of the lineup Sunday against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith started the past five games and will take a seat after going 4-for-20 with a solo home run, two walks and three additional runs scored. Jake McCarthy will receive a look in right field Sunday for Arizona.
Aug 25 2021Smith went 1-for-3 with a solo home run, a walk and two runs scored Wednesday against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith took Nick Mears yard in the sixth inning for his 10th home run of the season. It was Smith's first home run since July 21, though he managed a solid 11 RBI and 13 runs scored across 22 games in that span. While he hasn't hit for significant power, Smith does have a decent .270/.326/.410 line with 57 runs scored and 42 RBI across 451 plate appearances on the campaign.
Aug 23 2021Smith is out of the lineup Monday at Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has a strong .279 average since returning from the COVID-19 injured list Aug. 5, but he's slugging only .311 during that 15-game stretch. Daulton Varsho will take over in right field Monday for Arizona.
Aug 19 2021Smith isn't starting Thursday's game against the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has gone 2-for-12 with a run and a strikeout across the last three games and will get a rare day off Thursday. Christian Walker will start at first base and bat fourth.
Aug 14 2021Smith went 2-for-5 with two runs scored in Saturday's 7-0 win over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith scored in the first inning on Drew Ellis' home run and in the fifth frame on Josh Rojas' triple. He is batting .297 with eight RBI and six runs in the month of August. On the season, the 25-year-old is slashing .275/.362/.449 with nine long balls, 40 RBI and 53 runs scored in 416 plate appearances.
Aug 13 2021Smith went 3-for-5 with a double, run, four RBI and a strikeout in Thursday's 12-3 victory over the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith knocked in two runs with his third-inning double and later scored, singled home two more runs in the fourth and singled again in the sixth for his first three-hit game since May. The 25-year-old has opened August hot, going 9-for-28 with eight RBI in seven games.
Aug 12 2021Smith started at first base and went 1-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Wednesday's 7-2 loss to the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith opened the game at first base then moved to right field when Kole Calhoun was removed after injuring his hamstring while running the bases. That wasn't the end of Smith's moves; he later moved back to first base and finished the game in left field. With Calhoun suffering his third hamstring injury of the season, right field could open up as a permanent home for Smith, who has moved around all year.
Aug 5 2021Smith went 2-for-5 with three RBI in Thursday's loss to San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith (undisclosed), who was activated from the COVID-19 injured list earlier in the day, stroked a two-run single in the first inning and added an RBI single in the third for his first multi-RBI game since June 16. The 25-year-old Smith has established himself as a regular in the Arizona lineup, slashing .271/.331/.422 with nine home runs and 35 RBI in 384 plate appearances. He's added 20 doubles and three triples.
Jul 30 2021Smith was placed on the COVID-19 injured list Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not clear whether Smith has tested positive for COVID-19, but he'll be one of several players away from the team amid an outbreak. If the 25-year-old has tested negative, he'll be eligible to return as soon as he passes through the league's health and safety protocols.
Jul 28 2021Smith is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even with a right-hander (Jordan Lyles) on the mound for the Rangers and the designated-hitter spot available to the Diamondbacks, the lefty-hitting Smith will still head to the bench after starting the past five contests. Assuming he isn't dealing with an injury, Smith shouldn't be at any risk of seeing his playing time subside in the second half, given that the rookie is seen as a potential key piece in the 31-71 Diamonbacks' rebuilding effort. He's helped his cause for sticking in the lineup by slashing .333/.459/.600 in nine games since the All-Star break.
Jul 25 2021Smith went 0-for-2 with two walks and a run scored in Saturday's 7-3 win over the Cubs. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith continues to be the team's primary center fielder in the absence of Ketel Marte (hamstring), but that could change with Marte nearing a return. He's developed nicely this season, and the Diamondbacks would like to find a home for Smith. Right field would be the most logical place, particularly if Arizona moves Kole Calhoun. Even then, the return of Carson Kelly (wrist) complicates matters. That means they need to find a home for catcher Daulton Varsho, whose bat has suddenly erupted. At that point, Arizona could give Smith a larger share of the at-bats at first base, where Christian Walker's .115 ISO, .628 OPS and 22 RBI over 62 games are easily replaceable.
Jul 21 2021Smith went 2-for-3 with a solo home run, a walk and an additional run scored in Wednesday's 6-4 win over Pittsburgh. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith got the start at first base Wednesday. He came up clutch in the seventh inning with a go-ahead solo shot off Pittsburgh reliever Duane Underwood. Through 362 plate appearances, Smith has recorded nine homers, 31 RBI, 44 runs scored and a stolen base while maintaining a .265/.323/.419 slash line. He's seen most of his playing time in center field lately, but he can also spell Christian Walker at first base as he did Wednesday.
Jul 20 2021Smith is not starting Tuesday's game against the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will retreat to the bench against lefty Tyler Alexander a day after belting his eighth homer of the campaign. Stuart Fairchild draws the start in center field.
Jul 11 2021Smith is not in the starting lineup Sunday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He'll get a rest after starting the first two games of the series against Los Angeles. Christian Walker will start at first base as David Peralta, Daulton Varsho and Josh Reddick start in the outfield from left to right.
Jul 3 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Friday's 11-4 loss to San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith launched his second home run in as many games in the eighth inning off Jimmie Sherfy to bring Arizona within shouting distance, before the Giants plated four in the ninth and put the game out of reach. The 25-year-old first baseman/outfielder has already set a career high in plate appearances (312) and should continue to be steady presence in the lineup for the remainder of the season.
Jul 1 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a solo home run and two strikeouts in a 5-3 victory against the Giants on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith took Giants' starter Johnny Cueto deep to left in the fifth to extend Arizona's lead to the eventual 5-3 final. It was only his first home run and fourth extra-base hit since June 1 as Smith offers a decent .270 average but an uninspiring .322 on base and .399 slugging.
Jun 30 2021Smith is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Diamondbacks skipper Torey Lovullo will give the lefty-hitting Smith a day off with southpaw Kwang Hyun Kim on the bump for the Cardinals. Smith had started in each of the last eight games, going 8-for-31 with a double, two walks, two RBI and two runs.
Jun 28 2021Smith started in center field and went 1-for-4 with a run scored in Sunday's 5-4 loss to the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Diamondbacks announced that primary center fielder Ketel Marte will undergo an MRI on his left hamstring, increasing the chance he'll land on the injured list with a leg issue for the second time this season. That means the team may need a fill-in center fielder for a significant period of time, and Smith is a logical choice. He added center field to his defensive portfolio earlier in 2021 when Marte was on the IL.
Jun 20 2021Smith is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even with a right-hander (Tony Gonsolin) on the mound for the Dodgers, the lefty-hitting Smith will head to the bench for the second time in the series. The rookie is beginning to lose some steam from what was an impressive start to the season; he's gone 3-for-25 over his last seven games, dropping his batting average to .275.
Jun 18 2021Smith is not in the starting lineup Friday against the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith will get his second day off in four days, this time against right-hander Trevor Bauer. Josh Rojas will slide from second base to right field for the series opener.
Jun 17 2021Smith went 1-for-5 with two RBI in Wednesday's loss against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith made his presence felt in the top of the sixth inning with a two-out, two-run single that scored Josh Rojas and Ketel Marte, but he was silent the rest of the way. The first baseman has been very inconsistent at the plate and has hit safely in just five of his last 11 contests, posting a meager .216 average with just three RBI and a 3:8 BB:K in that span (37 at-bats).
Jun 15 2021Smith is not in the starting lineup Tuesday against the Giants. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith struck out twice in an 0-for-4 performance in Monday's loss to San Francisco. He'll get a breather for at least the beginning of Tuesday's game while veteran Josh Reddick mans right field and bats seventh.
Jun 9 2021Smith isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Athletics. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went 2-for-4 in Tuesday's loss to Oakland, but he'll get a breather for Wednesday's series finale. Christian Walker will take over at first base and bat fourth.
Jun 3 2021Smith is out of the lineup for Thursday's game against the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Christian Walker's recent return from the injured list and Josh Reddick's ongoing surge at the plate has made finding playing time for Smith more of a challenge of late, but the rookie still appears fairly secure in a near-everyday role. Though he'll sit Thursday, Smith has earned regular at-bats for an Arizona squad going nowhere by providing an .804 OPS while striking out in only 16.1 percent of his 218 plate appearances on the season.
Jun 2 2021Smith started at first base and went 1-for-4 with a walk, a three-run home run and a second run scored in Tuesday's 6-5 extra-inning win over the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith extended his hitting streak to 12 games, going 19-for-46 (.413) with six extra-base hits (two homers), eight RBI and nine runs scored during the streak. He and Josh Reddick have been the hottest hitters in the lineup, so manager Torey Lovullo is working to get both in the lineup whenever possible. The manager had the lefty Smith start at first base Sunday and Monday against right-handers instead of the righty-batting Christian Walker.
May 30 2021Smith is not in the lineup Sunday against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 25-year-old went 3-for-4 with a run scored Saturday and will take a seat in the series finale with Christian Walker starting at first base. Smith saw most of his recent action at first base, but he'll likely split reps in right field going forward with Josh Reddick after Walker was activated from the injured list Saturday.
May 29 2021Smith went 2-for-3 with a double, a triple and two walks in Friday's 8-6 loss to St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith had his fourth consecutive multi-hit game and ran his overall hit streak to eight contests, going 13-for-32 with five extra-base hits and five RBI during the run. Since the arrival of Josh Reddick and the return of Ketel Marte to Arizona's outfield, Smith has made a home at first base, a position normally manned by the injured Christian Walker (oblique). However, Walker will be evaluated following Friday's rehab appearance and could return to action this weekend.
May 27 2021Smith went 2-for-4 with a pair of doubles and three RBI in Thursday's 5-4 extra-inning loss to St. Louis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The first baseman put Arizona within a run on a two-RBI double in the seventh. He added a game-tying RBI double in the eighth. Smith has gone 11-for-29 (.379) with a home run, five RBI and four runs scored during a seven-game hitting streak. Overall, he's slashing .271/.314/.420 with four home runs, 18 RBI, 26 runs scored and a stolen base in 194 plate appearances. He's added 11 doubles and two triples. Smith has played well enough lately to stick in the lineup even when Christian Walker (oblique) returns from his rehab assignment.
May 23 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Sunday's 4-3 loss to Colorado. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith put Arizona in the lead with his two-run shot off Jon Gray in the sixth inning, his fourth long ball of the year. It was his first homer since May 2 and he has just five extra-base hits this month. The 25-year-old owns a .697 OPS through 181 plate appearances this season.
May 12 2021Smith started in center field Tuesday then shifted to first base when Christian Walker (oblique) was removed from the game. He went 2-for-4 with a walk, an RBI and two runs scored. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has been getting a steady dose of at-bats due to early-season injuries. This is Walker's second go-round with a sore right oblique muscle after spending three weeks on the injured list because of it. With Ketel Marte (hamstring) nearing a rehab assignment, at-bats in center field will dry up for Smith. That leaves either first base, pending Walker's status, or right field, where Kole Calhoun (hamstring) is out until mid-June.
May 10 2021Smith went 2-for-4 with a double and two runs scored in Monday's 5-2 win over Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith knocked a leadoff double in the first inning and came around to score on a David Peralta groundout. The 25-year-old outfielder then singled and scored in the third. He's scored 16 runs with 13 extra-base hits through 126 plate appearances.
May 7 2021Smith went 3-for-5 with a double and an RBI in Thursday's 3-1 loss to Miami. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith provided the only offense for the Diamondbacks, who had trouble scoring runs during a three-game sweep at the hands of the Marlins. He's been a lineup regular for much of the season due to injuries and should continue to see regular at-bats with Kole Calhoun (hamstring) sidelined until mid-June.
May 2 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run in the 8-4 win Sunday over the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith went deep off Chi Chi Gonzalez in the fifth inning Sunday for his third home run of the season. He has hit consistently in the leadoff spot, now with six hits including three extra base hits in his last four games. The 25-year-old is slashing .272/.309/.478 in 97 plate appearances.
May 1 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a triple, a run scored and a walk in the 7-2 win over the Rockies on Friday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith tripled off Jon Gray in the fourth inning for his second triple of the season. He drew a walk for only the fifth time this year in 88 plate appearances. The 25-year-old continues to be in the leadoff role and is slashing .265/.307/.458.
Apr 28 2021Smith may need to fill in for the injured Kole Calhoun (hamstring) in right field. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has received a steady diet of at-bats at first base with Christian Walker (oblique) on the mend, but the Diamondbacks may need a replacement in right field after Calhoun was removed from Tuesday's game. Calhoun is set for an MRI on Wednesday, which should clarify his status going forward. Josh Rojas and Josh VanMeter are also candidates for at-bats.
Apr 25 2021Smith went 3-for-4 with a solo home run in Sunday's 7-0 win over the Braves. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith's second home run of the year came off Drew Smyly in the first inning of game two in the doubleheader Sunday. He homered as the leadoff batter and he's excelled in his new leadoff role. The 25-year-old is batting .357 in his last six games since taking over as the leadoff spot. In 19 games this season, he is slashing .288/.329/.485.
Apr 24 2021Smith went 1-for-4 with a run scored in Friday's 5-4 loss to Atlanta. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith made his second consecutive start in center field, the first two of his career in center, and fourth consecutive as the Diamondbacks' leadoff hitter. Arizona manager Torey Lovullo had initially used Nick Heath as a replacement for Tim Locastro (finger) and Ketel Marte (hamstring), but he's gone with Smith's potentially more damaging bat Thursday and Friday. Smith has hit safely in five of the last six games, going 8-for-29 with three doubles, two RBI and five runs scored.
Apr 23 2021Smith started in center field and went 2-for-5 with a walk, an RBI and a run scored in Thursday's 14-11 win over Cincinnati. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith batted leadoff for the third straight game and is 5-for-16 with two walks, four runs and two RBI during that stretch. He made his first start in center field, which has been the realm of Nick Heath, who was held out of the starting nine for the first time since being acquired from the Royals over the weekend. With outfielders Tim Locastro (finger) and Ketel Marte (hamstring) and first baseman Christian Walker (oblique) unavailable, there are opportunities for Smith, even at an unfamiliar position like center field.
Apr 20 2021Smith will start at first base and bat leadoff Tuesday against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith hit second in Sunday's 5-2 win over the Nationals, but he'll move up to the leadoff spot for the second time this season while Josh Rojas retreats to the bench. With three everyday players in Christian Walker (oblique), Ketel Marte (hamstring) and Tim Locastro (finger) on the injured list, the lefty-hitting Smith looks he should have a regular spot in the lineup against right-handed pitching for the time being.
Apr 18 2021Smith started at first base but moved to center field when Tim Locastro left Saturday's game with an injured pinkie finger. The former went 1-for-4 in a 6-2 loss to the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith had never played center field before and is not a long-term solution. Arizona is expected to have coverage in time for Sunday's game, and that could be the recently acquired Nick Heath, who was traded from the Royals to the Diamondbacks on Saturday prior to Locastro's injury. Smith will continue to rotate in at first base while Christian Walker (oblique) is unavailable, likely when the Diamondbacks face right-handed pitching.
Apr 15 2021Smith went 1-for-3 with a home run, two RBI, two walks and an additional run scored in Thursday's 11-6 win over the Nationals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith received another start at first base while Christian Walker (oblique) remains on the injured list. The 25-year-old hit his first home run of the season off Daniel Hudson in the eighth inning. He will continue to start at first base until Walker is able to return.
Apr 9 2021Smith is not in Friday's lineup against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Kole Calhoun (knee) was activated from the injured list, so Smith now appears to be Arizona's fourth outfielder and backup first baseman. He should still get some starts, but would likely need another injury to someone ahead of him on the depth chart to regain the strong side of a platoon.
Apr 4 2021Smith started in right field Saturday but moved to first base after Christian Walker left the game with a facial injury. He went 1-for-3 in a 7-0 loss to the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith has filled in for the injured Kole Calhoun (knee) in right field against right-handed starters, but now he could be needed at first base pending Walker's status.
Mar 26 2021Smith started in right field and went 1-for-3 with a home run in Thursday's spring game against Kansas City. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith's first spring homer was all the offense the Diamondbacks could muster Thursday. He's competing with Tim Locastro for the opportunity to fill in for injured right fielder Kole Calhoun (knee), who is expected to miss the first two weeks of the regular season. Smith is batting .271 (13-for-48) with five extra-base hits, two RBI and 10 runs scored in 23 spring games.
Mar 6 2021Smith started in right field and went 3-for-3 with a double and two runs scored in Friday's spring game against the Reds. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith was the latest candidate to start in right field, the usual domain of the injured Kole Calhoun (knee), who may miss the first two weeks of the regular season. Smith recently added outfield to his portfolio, and he showed off with a nice running catch on a shallow fly. The 25-year-old first baseman/corner outfielder is 4-for-10 with two doubles and three runs scored in five spring appearances.
Mar 4 2021Smith is one of several players competing for playing time in right field following Kole Calhoun's knee surgery, Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Calhoun underwent successful knee surgery Wednesday, and he could miss games in April. Smith entered professional baseball as a first baseman but was exposed to the outfield in 2020 at the alternate training site. He brings a good plate approach and possesses a preternatural ability to discern pitches balls and strikes, but his power potential has come under scrutiny since being drafted in the first round of 2017 out of Virginia. The Diamondbacks believe he has tapped into more power in recent years, but that remains the big question: Can Smith slug enough as a corner infielder or outfielder? The 24-year-old made his MLB debut in 2020, posting a solid .270/.341/.405 line over 44 plate appearances.
Sep 26 2020Smith went 1-for-5 with two walks and a solo home run over both ends of Friday's doubleheader sweep of the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith launched his first homer in the majors in the fifth inning of the second game. He started in left field for the matinee and at first base in the nightcap. The 24-year-old Smith, a 2017 first-round draft pick, has hit safely in eight of 10 games and has posted a .294/.350/.441 slash line during his introduction to the majors.
Sep 23 2020Smith is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Rangers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty-hitting Smith gets the day off with a southpaw (Wes Benjamin) on the hill for Texas. Smith started each of Arizona's last five games, going 6-for-18 with a triple, four runs and two RBI.
Sep 19 2020Smith started at designated hitter and went 1-for-4 with a triple and an RBI in Friday's 6-3 win over the Astros. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pavin's hit safely in all six games since his callup, and the triple was his first extra-base knock. If the NL were to adopt the DH permanently, there might be a role for Pavin in 2021. He's currently blocked at first base and both corner-outfield spots, so a return to the minors may be how he starts next season.
Sep 18 2020Smith started at first base and went 2-for-4 with a run scored in Thursday's 7-3 loss to the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith made his fourth start in the last five games, appearing twice at first base, once at designated hitter and once in right field. He's hit safely in all four starts with five singles across 15 at-bats. Smith is getting valuable exposure to advanced pitching, which could lead to a backup role at first base and corner outfield in 2021. The 2017 first-round pick, who'd never played above Double-A prior to 2020, could also start at Triple-A Reno next year.
Sep 14 2020Smith went 1-for-3 with a walk, a run scored and a stolen base in Sunday's 7-3 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: One day after starting in right field, Smith was back in the lineup at first base Sunday. He has very little track record as a stolen-base threat in the minors, so Sunday's steal was a rare event, coming on the back end of a double steal. In two games since his contract was selected Thursday, Smith is 1-for-7 with one walk, one steal and two runs scored. Along with several other prospects up with the team right now, Smith should get ample plate appearances going forward, although maybe not daily.
Sep 13 2020Smith started in right field and went 1-for-4 in Saturday's 7-3 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith, a first-round draft pick in 2017, had his contract selected Thursday and made his MLB debut Saturday. He batted ninth and took the field in place of right-fielder Kole Calhoun. He's been a consistent hitter in the minors while playing corner outfield and first base.
Sep 10 2020Smith's contract was selected Thursday from the Diamondbacks' alternate training site, Zach Buchanan of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This is less of an event than when a typical top-10 draft pick is set to make his debut, but Arizona selecting Smith with the No. 7 overall pick in 2017 looked like a reach almost immediately after it happened. He hit .291/.370/.466 with 12 home runs in 507 plate appearances at Double-A last year, which was the first time he hit for average and power in pro ball. Smith would have had to been added to the 40-man roster after the season as protection from the Rule 5 draft, so this move gives the Diamondbacks a chance to see how he looks against big-league pitching over the next two-plus weeks. He takes the place of Jake Lamb, who was designated for assignment. Smith could get starts at first base, designated hitter and left field.
Jul 16 2020Smith entered Wednesday's intrasquad game as a replacement at first base for Seth Beer, who was removed after suffering a facial contusion, Arizona Sports reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smith entered the game for Beer, who took a high chopper in the face and was removed from the game with what was eventually determined to be a facial contusion. Beer, one of Arizona's highly regarded prospects, was not expected to be on the Diamondbacks' active roster at any point this season, but his injury comes on the heels of Christian Walker's groin injury and Kevin Cron's hamstring injury. The injuries impact the organizational depth at first base, which could benefit Smith in the short term.
Jun 2 2018Smith is slashing .216/.332/.359 with five home runs and two stolen bases across 196 plate appearances for High-A Visalia this season.Smith, the Diamondbacks' top overall selection in the 2017 first-year player draft, has been a disappointment thus far in his first taste of full-season ball. Though he has supplied two of his home runs in the last three games, Smith's .143 ISO for the season is still well below the threshold organizations typically look for from corner-infield prospects. While Smith's hit tool and excellent plate discipline more so than his power were the main draws when he came out of the University of Virginia, a .225 BABIP has mostly undermined the strengths of his batting profile. For all his struggles, the 22-year-old remains one of the top hitting prospects in the organization, but his standing in dynasty formats has probably dropped from where it was in the spring.