On July 25, the D-backs traded Josh Naylor then beat the Pirates 7-3. See how Arizona overcame the emotional shake-up to snap their three-game losing streak.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a whirlwind Friday for the Arizona Diamondbacks, a day defined by a major roster shake-up and a crucial on-field victory. Just hours after the stunning news that first baseman Josh Naylor was traded to the Seattle Mariners, the team took the field and snapped a three-game losing streak, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3. The win served as a powerful statement that even amid front-office moves geared toward the future, the players in the clubhouse are focused on winning now.
'This move gives us future flexibility and adds depth to our farm system.' - GM Mike Hazen on trading Josh Naylor
The biggest news of the day came off the field, as the Diamondbacks sent starting first baseman Josh Naylor to the Seattle Mariners. In return, Arizona received two promising prospects: minor league pitcher Luis Castillo Jr. and outfielder Gabriel Gonzalez. Naylor was a significant contributor, batting .292 with 11 homers and 59 RBIs. The move, while tough for the clubhouse, signals a clear strategy from the front office. 'Trading Josh was tough, but we believe in our young core,' Manager Torey Lovullo told the media. GM Mike Hazen echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the trade was about long-term gain.
Despite the pregame distraction, the D-backs showed impressive focus at PNC Park. Ryne Nelson was masterful on the mound, delivering a quality start to improve his record to 7-2. Over 6.2 innings, Nelson allowed just two earned runs while striking out seven and walking only one. The offense provided plenty of support, led by Ketel Marte, who went 2-for-4 with a three-run homer in the third inning. Blaze Alexander provided key insurance runs with a two-run double in the sixth, helping the team climb to a 51-53 record.
With the trade and Alek Thomas's placement on the bereavement list, the D-backs' outfield saw a new face. Jorge Barrosa was recalled from Triple-A Reno and made his season debut as a defensive replacement in the eighth. The 24-year-old earned his promotion by hitting .289 with 8 homers in Reno. 'Jorge brings energy and defense to our outfield,' Lovullo said. 'He has earned this shot.' The manager also confirmed Thomas is expected to rejoin the team after the weekend.
The Naylor trade directly bolsters the farm system, but the talent pool was already making noise. Just before his call-up, Jorge Barrosa went 2-for-4 with a double in the Reno Aces' 5-2 victory. More encouragingly, top shortstop prospect Jordan Lawlar continued his hot hitting, launching his 15th home run of the season for the Aces. The focus on acquiring and developing young talent like Lawlar, and now Castillo Jr. and Gonzalez, underscores the organization's long-term vision.
It was a day of conflicting emotions for the Diamondbacks, trading a key offensive piece while simultaneously showcasing the team's resilience with a much-needed win. As the dust settles, the focus shifts to how this re-tooled roster will perform down the stretch. With new prospects in the system and young players stepping up, the D-backs are navigating a tricky path between competing today and building for a brighter tomorrow.
