Alek Thomas Bats 5th, Jose Fernandez Debuts in Diamondbacks vs. Tigers
The Arizona Diamondbacks announced a revised lineup for Tuesday night in Phoenix. Center fielder Alek Thomas will bat fifth while prospect Jose Fernandez is set to make his major-league debut at third base.
Alek Thomas has started the season 3-for-15, with each hit a double. He has driven in four runs and worked on a smaller front-leg kick in the offseason.
Alek Thomas Bats 5th. Jose Fernandez Debuts in Diamondbacks vs. Tigers.
Fernandez promoted after quick rise
Fernandez, 22, made his Triple-A debut on Sunday and received a call-up the next day. The move followed lefty Pavin Smith being placed on the 10-day injured list.
In Cactus League action he hit .280 with three homers. He also tied the Spring Breakout record with three hits on March 22.
Minor-league resume
Last year in Double-A Amarillo he played 122 games and led the team with 128 hits. That total included 27 doubles and 17 home runs.
He logged most innings at shortstop and saw time at third base. Defensively he showed enough versatility to earn the promotion.
Manager perspective
Manager Torey Lovullo said he wants Fernandez to stay with the approach that earned him this chance. He emphasized impact at the plate and sound defense as keys.
Lovullo encouraged the rookie to be consistent and play his game. The skipper expressed excitement for Fernandez’s opportunity on the big stage.
Lineup and pitching matchup
- Ketel Marte, 2B
- Corbin Carroll, RF
- Geraldo Perdomo, SS
- Gabriel Moreno, DH
- Alek Thomas, CF
- Jose Fernandez, 3B
- Carlos Santana, 1B
- James McCann, C
- Jordan Lawlar, LF
Nolan Arenado will sit this game for rest. Right-hander Brandon Pfaadt draws the start for Arizona.
Pfaadt posted a 0.90 ERA in 10 spring innings. Last season he made a career-high 33 starts, compiled a 5.25 ERA, and earned 13 wins.
He will face Detroit righty Casey Mize. Mize threw 149 innings last year with a 3.87 ERA and 139 strikeouts.
Game 2 from Chase Field begins at 6:40 p.m. Fans can hear the broadcast on ESPN 620 and the Arizona Sports app.
Coverage and updates are available at Filmogaz.com.
