The D-backs fell to the Blue Jays on June 17, 2025, as Brandon Pfaadt was outdueled by Chris Bassitt. Can Arizona's bats wake up to avoid a sweep in Toronto?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
The Arizona Diamondbacks' trip north of the border started on a sour note, as they fell to the Toronto Blue Jays in the series opener at Rogers Centre on Tuesday. The loss drops the D-backs back to .500 with a 36-36 record, making the next two games crucial for their standing in the competitive NL West.
Pavin Smith entered the game with a blistering .365 average, .487 on-base percentage, and .698 slugging percentage.
Despite coming into the contest with some of the league's hottest hitters, the Diamondbacks' offense couldn't solve Blue Jays starter Chris Bassitt. Arizona sent Brandon Pfaadt to the mound, but he was unable to secure his ninth win of the season. The defeat marks a frustrating start to the interleague series and leaves the team in fourth place in the division, needing a quick turnaround to gain ground.
While the on-field action was disappointing, the front office remained quiet. The team reported no new transactions, roster moves, or injury updates on Tuesday. The roster remains stable following the weekend signing of RHP Anthony DeSclafani. This period of calm on the transaction wire, however, only amplifies the biggest question percolating throughout the fanbase.
The question on every fan's mind is: when will Jordan Lawlar arrive? While there were no new minor league updates from Tuesday, the top prospect's recent tear in Triple-A Reno is impossible to ignore. His weekend performance, which included a three-hit, three-RBI night, serves as a powerful reminder of the impact bat waiting in the wings. As the big-league club looks for a spark, the calls for Lawlar's promotion will only grow louder.
The loss stings, but it's just one game in a long season. Arizona has a chance to even the series tomorrow and prove that this offensive lull was a fluke. With the bats of Carroll and Smith leading the way and Lawlar knocking on the door in Reno, the talent is there. Now, it's about execution and bouncing back quickly to stay competitive in the crowded NL West.
