While the Arizona Diamondbacks managed to replace Eugenio Suarez by trading for Nolan Arenado, they still haven’t replaced Josh Naylor at first. While they do have Pavin Smith, he’d be much better in a platoon.
Fansided’s Christopher Kline believes the DBacks should recruit an old friend of Arenado’s, and sign Paul Goldschmidt. While he’s a shell of his former self, he would still serve as an excellent platoon bat.
“The Arizona Diamondbacks never fully replaced Josh Naylor at first base. Lefty Pavin Smith can hammer right-handed pitching, but the D-backs need a platoon option. Paul Goldschmidt is 38 years old and only has so much left in the tank, but he posted a.981 OPS against left-handed pitching in 2025. That's not too shabby. His defense has declined with age, of course, but on a fundamental level, Goldy can still play the position or soak up the occasional matchup-based DH start for Arizona. This Diamondbacks team is closer to contending than most folks think. Goldschmidt can provide situational value on the field and a ton of intangibles and leadership skills in the clubhouse.,” Kline wrote.
This past season, Goldschmidt slashed.274/.328/.403/.731 with 31 doubles, 10 home runs, and 45 RBI in 146 games played. He’s durable and provides constant offense, two major things you want in a platoon bat.
He’d also be quite cost-effective. He’s only projected to receive a one-year, $7.1 million deal, and when you have Nolan Arenado’s giant contract on your books, taking a contract like that is well worth it.
Hopefully, the DBacks realize this might be a good move on their part, and get to work on making a deal with the veteran MVP.
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