A big opportunity for Tyler Locklear of the Arizona Diamondbacks begins now. Recently acquired from the Seattle Mariners in a trade, he was immediately added to the big-league roster. He now needs to demonstrate that he can handle MLB pitching and showcase his power.
New D-Backs Infielder Tyler Locklear has a Big Opportunity
BREAKING: The Diamondbacks have traded star third baseman and fan favorite Eugenio Suarez to the Seattle Mariners ahead of Thursday’s MLB trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
In return, Arizona will receive 1B prospect Tyler Locklear and two pitching prospects, per… pic.twitter.com/yWUK5L0ud7
— Arizona Sports (@AZSports) July 31, 2025
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First Base Opening
The Diamondbacks have a first base opening after trading away Josh Naylor, and Pavin Smith is dealing with an oblique strain. Locklear has the immediate chance to showcase both his current skills and his potential. The Diamondbacks certainly want to see what he brings to the table. With Smith returning, we could see a platoon situation, allowing the team to evaluate Locklear’s play.
Early Offensive Struggles
Locklear is known for his ability to hit the ball to all fields, with a tendency to pull the ball for power. In the minors, he showed a disciplined approach and demonstrated his ability to drive the ball to all fields. He was having a strong season at Triple-A Tacoma, hitting .316 with 19 home runs, 82 RBI, and 25 doubles before the trade. Chase Field, considered a favorable park for right-handed hitters, would undoubtedly benefit his ability. However, he has had some early struggles with the Diamondbacks, one being a tendency to chase pitches outside the strike zone. He has struck out 24 times in 61 at-bats.
Still, despite the early challenges, he has shown flashes of potential, including hitting two home runs. Locklear has received a lot of praise for his recent adjustments at the plate, thanks to hitting coach Joe Mather. They have tweaked his footwork and worked on his plate discipline. His willingness and ability to learn and adapt can only serve him going forward.
Locked in. pic.twitter.com/3sSL6Bz2n4
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) August 5, 2025
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Defense
Initially, Locklear played both third and first base in college, but has settled into a role as a first baseman in his professional career. He has worked on his defensive skills since being drafted. He has improved his footwork and has demonstrated that he can effectively handle the position. Locklear has contributed with 11 double plays and seven assists over 16 games, suffering only one error.
Adjusting to His New Team
An opportunity for Tyler Locklear to bring stability at first base is available. Locklear played in 16 games last year and did not perform well in his showing. With a new organization, he hopes not only to make an impression but also to prove himself as an MLB player this time around. He mentioned that he was a little surprised to be traded, joining a team that previously had two solid players at first for extended periods—Paul Goldschmidt (2011-18) and Christian Walker (2019-24). Nevertheless, the Diamondbacks players welcomed him with open arms.
The organization would like Locklear to become their next long-term player at that position and a clubhouse leader. While he has struggled early, there’s still the sureness that he can hit and develop his power. His performance over the next month or so, however, could impact whether the Diamondbacks seek to add a first baseman in the off-season.
Outlook
Introducing Locklear now gives the team a glimpse into how well he handles pressure. More importantly, it provides him with some much-needed considerable big-league experience and prepares him for next season. Locklear needs to use this time to continue improving his plate discipline and his ability to handle fastballs. He needs to curb his tendency to chase pitches outside the strike zone. With his notable power potential, he can be a 25+ home run hitter. Add that to his improving defensive skills and abilities, and Locklear could see himself at first base for the Diamondbacks next season and beyond.
Main Photo Credit: © Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
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