Next Season’s First Baseman

Writer Makakilo analyzes potential first base options for the Arizona Diamondbacks heading into next season after a campaign with shared playing time. The Diamondbacks posted a negative 2.4 Wins Above Average at first base, where Ildemaro Vargas led the club with 74 appearances. Current internal options evaluated for the role include Tim Tawa, Pavin Smith, free agent Vargas, prospects Manuel Pena and Jose Fernandez, and potentially Ketel Marte via a defensive shift.

Makakilo argues that trading for Chicago White Sox first baseman Andrew Vaughn would provide the best everyday option at first base. The writer also considers Ryan O’Hearn as a bounce-back trade target. If Arizona utilizes a platoon, Makakilo suggests pairing Tawa or O’Hearn against right-handed pitchers with Vargas or Marte against left-handers, while using Fernandez or Pena as depth call-ups.