© Jacob Reiner-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — Arizona Diamondbacks infielder Jordan Lawlar is trying something new this winter with the Tigres De Licey.
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Sep 7, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Diamondbacks infielder Jordan Lawlar against the Boston Red Sox in the seventh inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Lawlar, who primarily plays the infield, made his center-field debut for the team on Tuesday. In the Tigres’ 8-2 win, the former Diamondbacks top prospect went 1-for-5 with two RBIs and three strikeouts.
Many speculate that the move is related to the crowded infield platoon the D-Backs have built for themselves.
May 17, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Jordan Lawlar (10) throws to first against the Colorado Rockies in the second inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Reiner-Imagn Images
With Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo locked into their respective positions, and Blaze Alexander emerging as an important utility player for Arizona, there isn’t much room for Jordan Lawlar to play. As Lawlar continues to develop in the major leagues, he may need to move around to other positions if he wants to stay with the team that drafted him.
However, this move could cause a ripple effect if the Snakes decide to keep Lawlar in center field to start next season.
Jun 24, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks left fielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. (left), center fielder Alek Thomas (center) and right fielder Jake McCarthy (right) celebrate after defeating the Chicago White Sox at Rate Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images
Alek Thomas and Jake McCarthy have handled center field duties over the past few seasons. While their defense hasn’t faltered, their bats tell a different story. Both players have struggled to break through in the major leagues, unlike fellow outfielder Corbin Carroll, who has found success on both sides of the ball.
With fellow outfielder Lourdes Gurriel Jr. expected to miss most of next season because of an injury, left field is the only position left to address. The Diamondbacks will need to decide whether Thomas or McCarthy gets the job, or if they’ll keep both and trade Lawlar instead.
May 28, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks second baseman Jordan Lawlar against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Lawlar has yet to play a full MLB season with Arizona, having suffered injuries over the past two years since his first call-up in 2023. The move to center field offers him more versatility and an opportunity for personal growth that he can build on. This past season wasn’t what Lawlar envisioned, as he was sent back to Triple-A after underperforming and making a few defensive blunders during a crucial stretch when called back up.
The willingness to try a different position showcases the young player’s ability to adapt and find success in a lower-pressure environment, positioning himself for a potential breakthrough.
Jordan Lawlar gets the job done for the @Dbacks #walkoff pic.twitter.com/2mR7HP16bY
— MLB (@MLB) September 17, 2025
While trade talks are currently speculation, they raise the question of what the team will look like in 2026 if Lawlar remains in center field and who might be leaving.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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