PHOENIX – The Arizona Diamondbacks went through a major facelift this past offseason. Arizona experienced the highs of signing a former Cy Young winner in Corbin Burnes and the low of losing eight-year Dbacks first baseman Christian Walker. The franchise is moving in a new direction in 2025, and one of the key additions to this renovated lineup is first baseman Josh Naylor. The former Cleveland Guardians infielder was brought to the valley a day after Walker signed with the Houston Astros. Naylor is a former All-Star and has looked phenomenal at the plate in his first Spring Training with Arizona.
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Mar 3, 2025; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks first base Josh Naylor (22) hits a single against the Chicago Cubs in the third inning at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Naylor has appeared in eight games and 22 plate appearances, having a .455 batting average. His 10 hits are tied for fifth in the major league for Spring Training while earning a 1.095 OPS. The 27-year-old has illustrated an impressive patience at the plate, only striking out once in his 22 plate appearances.
Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Josh Naylor during spring training workouts at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick in Scottsdale on Feb. 20, 2025. Syndication: Arizona Republic
In 2024, Naylor had the best season of his career, earning an All-Star bid with 31 home runs. While he hasn’t showcased it yet, the Canadian first baseman’s power at the plate will be massive for the Diamondbacks for this upcoming season. Replacing Walker was a tall task for Arizona. However, general manager Mike Hazen found an exceptional replacement in Naylor. The Diamondbacks need Naylor to bring that stellar hitting to Chase Field on Opening Day against the Chicago Cubs.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
