Jordan Lawlar Optioned to Triple-A Reno
The Arizona Diamondbacks made 7 roster moves and have 46 players in camp.
Optioned to Triple-A Reno
INF Jordan Lawlar, RHP Justin Martinez, OF Jorge Barrosa, RHP Cristian Mena, RHP Peter Strzelecki
Reassigned to Minor League camp:
LHP Kyle Backhus, C Adrian Del Castillo
Lawlar is the headline move in today's roster transactions. General Manager Mike Hazen made clear from the beginning of camp that he wants Lawlar to play every day. With Torey Lovullo naming Geraldo Perdomo the starting shortstop early in camp as well, it was clear that the team valued every day reps in Reno for Lawlar over a potential backup role in the Major Leagues to start the season.
Lawlar had a very successful minor league season in 2023 batting .278/.378/.496, .874 OPS with 20 homers and 36 stolen bases. He struggled in limited at bats when called up to the majors however batting .129 in 34 PA. Still just 21 years old, Lawlar is waiting in the wings and will likely be playing in MLB sooner rather than later.
The other players that had an outside shot to make the roster were right-handed fireballer Justin Martinez and outfielder Jorge Barrosa. The team will be looking for Martinez to continue refining his command of his 100+ MPH fastball to go with his devastating splitter and slider. Barrosa will be the starting centerfielder for Reno, and has already shown his defense is virtually on par with Alek Thomas'.
Mena was acquired in trade from the White Sox in exchange for Dominic Fletcher and showed high velocity and promise spring camp. Kyle Backhus pitched very well in his limited opportunities and will provide left-handed depth should the need arise to call up a lefty reliever.
