24-06-2025
Fans React to Diamondbacks' Josh Naylor Decision Before White Sox Game
Fans React to Diamondbacks' Josh Naylor Decision Before White Sox Game originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Josh Naylor is currently playing in his seventh major league season since being drafted by the Miami Marlins in the first round of the 2015 MLB Draft.
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After a five-year tenure with the Cleveland Guardians, Naylor was traded to the Diamondbacks in the 2024 offseason in exchange for pitcher Slade Cecconi and a Competitive Balance Round B draft pick. He was acquired to fill the void left by Christian Walker, who departed for the Houston Astros in free agency.
The Diamondbacks have high expectations for Naylor, particularly after his standout performance with the Guardians last season. As an All-Star, he not only showcased his impressive power numbers but also played a pivotal role in guiding his team deep into the playoffs, making it to the ALCS.
Arizona Diamondbacks first baseman Josh Naylor (22)Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
During yesterday's game against the Chicago White Sox, Naylor was pulled due to right shoulder discomfort. It appeared he tweaked his shoulder on an awkward swing in the second inning, and by the fourth inning, after a groundout, he was visibly in pain and had to be removed from the contest.
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Despite this setback, Arizona decided to slot Naylor back into the lineup today.
Diamondbacks fans reacted to the decision to play Naylor after being removed from the game yesterday.
A concerned fan said, "The training staff will find out in a few days that he has a dislocated shoulder."
Another added, "Not sure I like this. Take a day and let it rest Josh! Tawa has been great over there at 1st."
"We've seen this story before," said another.
One fan said, "Dude is made out of something different."
Another added, "He's crazy lol. You have to drag him off the field to get him out the lineup! Love it."
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The Diamondbacks have been decimated by injuries of late—losing key players such as Corbin Burnes, Gabriel Moreno, Corbin Carroll and, most recently, Eugenio Suarez. Amid these challenges, Naylor's performance remains a bright spot as he's hitting .303 with an .824 OPS, along with nine home runs, 51 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases, providing a much-needed offensive boost for the team.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 24, 2025, where it first appeared.