Jordan Lawlar, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ top prospect, will undergo surgery on his right thumb, sidelining him for at least two months. The team’s director of player development, Shaun Larkin, confirmed that Lawlar’s injury occurred during a minor-league spring game while he attempted to pick up a ball with his throwing hand.
Impact of the Injury
The injury is expected to keep Lawlar out for approximately 8 to 10 weeks, pushing his potential return to the major leagues to at least midseason. Before this setback, Lawlar had already been optioned to minor-league camp, which made the timing of the injury even more unfortunate.
As the No. 4 prospect in baseball according to The Athletic’s Keith Law, Lawlar made his major-league debut last season but struggled significantly, managing only four hits in 31 at-bats. His performance during spring training did not help his case, as he had difficulty at the plate, making it easier for the Diamondbacks to option him to Triple-A and retain incumbent starter Gerardo Perdomo at shortstop.
Perdomo, while also facing challenges at the plate last season, is now in a position to maintain his role as Lawlar recovers. The injury shifts the timeline for Lawlar’s return from early to midseason, but it doesn’t dramatically change the competition for the starting shortstop position.
A History of Injuries
This latest setback marks yet another injury in Lawlar’s career since he was selected as the sixth overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft from a Dallas-area high school. His pro career started on a challenging note when he tore the labrum in his left shoulder just two games in. In 2022, he faced additional setbacks, missing three weeks due to an abnormal rib growth that caused back pain, and later fracturing his scapula in the Arizona Fall League.
Despite these challenges, Lawlar has made impressive strides through the minor leagues, reaching the major leagues before his 22nd birthday.
Scouting Report
Scouts have high expectations for Lawlar due to his instincts and skill on both sides of the ball. His defensive abilities have improved significantly, with projections suggesting he could be a 55 defender at shortstop, at the very least maintaining an average level of play.
Offensively, Lawlar is noted for his plus bat speed, with the potential to hit 15-20 home runs at his peak. However, it’s worth noting that the 20 home runs he hit last year were somewhat inflated due to playing in hitter-friendly parks in Amarillo and Reno.
When at his best, Lawlar’s swing is short to the ball, allowing him to make solid contact. His swing path tends to produce more low line drives rather than towering home runs. An easy plus runner, he poses a significant base-stealing threat with an impressive 87 percent success rate in the minors.
One area of concern is Lawlar’s tendency to lunge and over-rotate during his swing in an attempt to generate power. This can lead to poor contact or ground balls. However, if he can stay patient and adhere to his strengths, Lawlar has the potential to be a star infield player, even if he eventually transitions from shortstop to a position requiring superior defense.
While Lawlar’s thumb surgery presents a setback in his development, his talent and determination remain evident. As he focuses on his recovery, the Diamondbacks and their fans will be eagerly awaiting his return, hoping he can fulfill the promise that made him one of baseball’s top prospects.
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