Pavin Smith: Arizona Diamondbacks Designate First Baseman for Assignment

The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated first baseman Pavin Smith for assignment following their 3-1 win over the San Diego Padres. The move clears a roster spot for top prospect Ryan Waldschmidt, who was recalled from Triple-A Reno.

Background on Pavin Smith

Born February 6, 1996, Smith is a left-handed batter and thrower who was selected in the first round of the 2017 MLB Draft. He has served primarily as a first baseman and designated hitter, offering positional flexibility between the corners. Source 10

Recent Performance Struggles

Smith’s 2026 batting average has hovered around .141, reflecting limited production outside a brief hot streak from September 2024 to April 2025. He went 0-for-4 with a strikeout in his final game before the roster change. Source 4

The DFA Announcement

The Diamondbacks announced the DFA after the series split with San Diego, ending Smith’s tenure with the organization amid ongoing offensive instability at first base. Source 1

Corresponding Roster Move

Outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt was recalled from Triple-A Reno as the corresponding move, bringing a high-upside replacement option into the lineup. Source 2

Next Steps for Pavin Smith

Smith now has a seven-day window to be claimed on waivers, traded, or outright released. Other MLB clubs seeking left-handed power may show interest during this period.