ST. LOUIS –For months, Arizona Diamondbacks fans have been asking the same question: When will the organization finally make a change at first base?
That question was partially answered when the club designated Carlos Santana for assignment. The veteran was brought in to stabilize a position that had become a weakness, providing experience, defense, and hopefully some reliable production. Instead, injuries and inconsistency defined his time in Arizona . The player signed to be a solution became another problem for a team fighting to remain relevant in a competitive National League race.
D-backs first baseman Santana (41) during a spring training game against the Brewers at Salt River Fields on March 20, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The reaction from fans was immediate and overwhelmingly positive.
But while Santana's departure was celebrated, it also created a new debate. If performance was truly the standard, why is Pavin Smith
still on the roster? The frustration isn't difficult to understand. Smith owns a .167 batting average with just eight hits in 48 at-bats. His four runs scored and eight RBIs offer limited offensive value, and the lack of production has become increasingly noticeable as Arizona searches for consistency throughout the lineup.
This is bigger than comparing two players. It's about accountability.Fans can accept struggles when there is a clear developmental plan. What they struggle to accept is inconsistency in decision-making. When one underperforming player is removed while another remains, supporters naturally question the criteria being used. That matters because roster decisions shape trust while winning organizations establish standards and apply them evenly. Fans notice when those standards appear flexible.
Apr 3, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona first baseman Santana (41) makes a catch in the infield during the fifth inning of the game against the Atlanta Braves at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Arianna Grainey-Imagn Images
The Diamondbacks have taken one step by moving on from Santana. Whether it proves to be the right baseball decision will be determined over time. The larger question remains unanswered of whether production is driving personnel decisions, and who will be next? Until Arizona provides that answer, the conversation surrounding Pavin Smith isn't going away.
Jun 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona outfielderSmith against the Minnesota Twins at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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