Pavin Smith

Smith's slide from grace continued for a second straight season in 2023, when he spent nearly as much time at Triple-A Reno (62 games) than in the majors (69). The left-handed hitting outfielder batted .188 (.158 against lefties) in the majors. Being a lefty swinger blocks potential opportunities, as Arizona's starting outfield all bat from that side. The team also re-signed Lourdes Gurriel to be DH and the right-handed alternative in the outfield, further blocking opportunities for Smith. An optimist might see Smith as the strong side of a platoon at designated hitter, which could happen if the Diamondbacks don't add a right-handed DH-type (like J.D. Martinez). He's two years removed from a competent season, but that was a different roster than this World Series crew. Read Past Outlooks