Diamondbacks Place Pavin Smith on IL, Recall Jose Fernandez

Arizona promotes top infield prospect after Smith sidelined with elbow injury

Mar. 30, 2026 at 9:48pm

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting a baseball game or match, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of navy blue, burnt orange, and forest green.The Diamondbacks' roster moves reflect the team's efforts to find the right balance of veteran leadership and young talent as they aim to bounce back in the new season.Phoenix Today

The Arizona Diamondbacks have placed first baseman Pavin Smith on the 10-day injured list due to left elbow inflammation, and have recalled top infield prospect Jose Fernandez from the minors to make his MLB debut.

Why it matters

The Diamondbacks are looking to bounce back from a tough 2025 season, and the loss of Smith, one of their key offensive contributors, is a setback. However, the promotion of the highly touted Fernandez provides an opportunity for the team to get an early look at one of their top young talents.

The details

Smith had been dealing with the elbow issue during spring training, which caused him to miss a few days. He returned by the end of Cactus League play but was scratched from the Opening Day lineup. Smith did play on Friday and Saturday as the designated hitter before being placed on the IL. Fernandez, 22, was a standout in spring training, hitting .300 with 3 home runs, 3 doubles and a triple in 10 games. He's played all four infield positions in the minors and hit 17 home runs with 12 stolen bases in Double-A last season.

  • Smith was placed on the 10-day injured list retroactive to March 29.
  • Fernandez was recalled by the Diamondbacks on Monday, March 30.

The players

Pavin Smith

Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman who was placed on the injured list with left elbow inflammation.

Jose Fernandez

Top infield prospect for the Arizona Diamondbacks who was recalled from the minors to make his MLB debut.

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What’s next

Fernandez is set to make his MLB debut shortly after being recalled, and the Diamondbacks will monitor Smith's recovery from the elbow injury to determine when he can return to the lineup.

The takeaway

The Diamondbacks are turning to their top infield prospect Fernandez to help fill the void left by Smith's injury, providing an opportunity for the young player to make an early impact at the major league level.