Three players to watch during Diamondbacks spring training

Jordan Montgomery, pitcher

2024 MLB stats: 8-7, 6.23 ERA, 1.65 WHIP and 83 strikeouts over 117 innings pitched

Signed at the end of spring training last season to a one-year, $25M deal with options, Montgomery was brought in as a potential piece to help the Diamondbacks get back to the World Series. Instead, he struggled mightily and was eventually relegated to the bullpen during the 2024 season.

Now, in his second season in Arizona and the start of his first full spring training with the team, Montgomery is looking to have a major bounce back and earn a spot in a rotation that does not lack options.

Jordan Lawlar, shortstop

2024 MiLB stats: .318/.417/.482, nine extra-base hits and 20 RBI in 23 games played

Expected to get his first long look in the majors last season before injuries derailed those plans, Lawlar is coming into camp looking to prove he is ready for the big stage.

The sixth overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, Lawlar has major offensive potential and is still only 22 years old. While the Diamondbacks just announced a contract extension with current shortstop Geraldo Perdomo, Lawlar should still be a major piece for the team moving forward whether it's at shortstop or third base. Lawlar would need an unreal showing in spring training to break camp with the MLB club to start the season.

Josh Naylor, first base

2024 MLB stats: .243/.320/.456, 31 home runs, 108 RBI in 152 games played

Acquired this offseason in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians, Naylor has some major shoes to fill in his first season in the desert. 

A first-time All-Star in 2024, Naylor slashed .243/.320/.456 with a career-high 31 home runs and 108 RBI in 152 games for the Guardians. 

While he showed signs of slowing down in the second half, Naylor will be joining a lineup that scored the most runs in baseball last season with 886. With that type of production up and down the lineup, Naylor will have plenty of opportunities for his new team.