Insider Names 2 Diamondbacks Breakout Candidates

Alek Thomas and Jordan Lawlar are primed for big seasons in Arizona.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 10:18pm

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According to ESPN insider Kiley McDaniel, outfielder Alek Thomas and infielder/outfielder Jordan Lawlar are the top breakout candidates on the Arizona Diamondbacks roster heading into the 2026 season. Both players have impressed in spring training, with Lawlar hitting .323/.432/.742 with 4 home runs and Thomas slashing .375/.444/.625 in limited Cactus League action.

Why it matters

The Diamondbacks are looking to build on a promising 2025 season and these two young players could be key to their success. Thomas and Lawlar are both highly touted prospects who have yet to fully break out at the major league level, and a strong 2026 campaign from either or both could solidify Arizona's lineup for years to come.

The details

Lawlar, in particular, needs to find a way to stick at the major league level after being a top prospect. He's played solid defense in center field, a new position for him, and has shown improvement against off-speed pitching. Thomas, meanwhile, has been working on reducing his leg kick in hopes of improving his hitting, and the early results have been promising despite his time away for the World Baseball Classic.

  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in the coming weeks.
  • Lawlar and Thomas have been impressive in spring training games played throughout March 2026.

The players

Alek Thomas

An outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is looking to bounce back from an injury-riddled 2025 season.

Jordan Lawlar

An infielder/outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks who is a former top prospect looking to solidify his spot at the major league level.

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What they’re saying

“Lawlar and Thomas have long tantalized with their tools and prospect status, but they haven't quite broken through for extended periods at the big league level just yet. They are hot this spring and slated to start the season as Arizona's primary center and left fielder, respectively.”

— Kiley McDaniel, ESPN Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

Both Lawlar and Thomas will look to carry their strong spring training performances into the regular season as they aim to secure starting roles and help the Diamondbacks contend in the NL West.

The takeaway

The Diamondbacks' future is bright with young talents like Lawlar and Thomas poised for breakout seasons. If they can translate their spring success into the regular season, Arizona could emerge as a surprise contender in the NL West.