LIDOM is an exceptional opportunity for players to continue to perfect their craft in the offseason. Additionally, winter leagues allow young players to show they are ready to play on a major league roster. Jordan Lawlar of the Tigres del Licey has taken the opportunity to do just that.
Jordan Lawlar is a 22-year-old shortstop from Dallas, Texas, and is currently the number one prospect in the Diamondbacks farm system and the number nine prospect in the MLB. Since being drafted sixth overall in the 2021 MLB draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, Lawlar has proved that he is more than worthy of the high draft pick. Lawlar has a batting average of over .290 in the minor leagues and an on-base percentage over .390.
Additionally, Lawlar has shown that he is an exceptional baserunner, stealing 82 bases in the minor leagues. Lawlar has been called up to the major leagues before but has struggled to consistently stay on the Diamondbacks roster and find play time.
Although Lawlar looks ready to be an everyday starter in the MLB, the Diamondbacks have a lot of talent in the middle of their infield. Geraldo Perdomo is currently the Diamondbacks starting as a second baseman, and he is looking far more comfortable at the plate. Perdomo became an everyday starter for the Diamondbacks in 2022 and hit under .200 that season. In 2023, Perdomo improved drastically at the plate, hitting just under .250.
In 2024, Perdomo had his best season at the plate, batting just under .275. With Perdomo continuing to improve and Ketel Marte being a perennial all-star at second base, it is hard to see an avenue for Lawlar to get consistent playing time for the Diamondbacks.
However, Jordan Lawlar has succeeded in every opportunity he has been given. Dominican Winter Ball gives Lawlar a great opportunity to prove his worth to the Diamondbacks and every team in the major leagues. As the Diamondbacks near their championship window, do not be surprised if Lawlar becomes part of a blockbuster trade. The Diamondbacks are trying to win now while other teams are beginning to rebuild.
