The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated outfielder Alek Thomas for assignment, ending his tenure with the team. The club is now focusing on prospect Ryan Waldschmidt to fill the gap.
Apr 19, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Alek Thomas against the Toronto Blue Jays at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks have designated longtime outfielder Alek Thomas for assignment, marking the end of a long and often frustrating search for consistency from one of the organization’s former top prospects.
Sep 12, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder Alek Thomas (5) walks to the dugout after striking out to Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Pablo Lopez (49) in the second inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
The move cleared a roster spot for top prospect Ryan Waldschmidt, whose promotion signals a shift toward the franchise’s next wave of young talent.
Still, Diamondbacks fans had a lot to say about seeing Thomas no longer wearing Sedona Red, while also thanking him for creating moments that helped define the franchise in recent years.
Alek Thomas was designated for assignment due to a long and frustrating search for consistency as one of the team's former top prospects.
Ryan Waldschmidt is a prospect being considered by the Diamondbacks to replace Alek Thomas following his designation for assignment.
Designating a player for assignment means the team has removed him from the 40-man roster, allowing them to trade, release, or send him to the minors.
Alek Thomas's DFA opens up a roster spot for the Diamondbacks, potentially allowing for new talent like Ryan Waldschmidt to contribute.
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Thomas, 26, arrived in the majors with high expectations because of his elite defense and athleticism. He delivered memorable moments during Arizona’s 2023 playoff run but never fully developed his offensive production.
This year, the outfielder was hitting .181 with two home runs, 10 RBIs and a .562 OPS before the move.
Mar 27, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks center fielder Alek Thomas (5) hits a two RBI double against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The decision, while deemed necessary by the organization, also marks the departure of a member of Arizona’s homegrown core alongside players such as Corbin Carroll. His speed and defense in center field made him a favorite at Chase Field, but the front office prioritized offensive upside as the club looks to regain momentum after a difficult three-series skid.
Reaction from fans, especially given how quickly the announcement came, reflects a player many hoped would work through his struggles and become a cornerstone for the club.
For the D-Backs, the move underscores both the urgency of competing in a crowded National League race and the confidence in their next wave of talent. Thomas’ departure is more personal — the end of a tenure defined by flashes of promise, postseason memories, and unrealized potential.
Arizona Diamondbacks’ Ryan Waldschmidt (86) reacts after striking out against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first inning on Feb. 25, 2026, at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Attention now shifts to Ryan Waldschmidt, who arrives as one of the organization’s most promising bats after hitting .289 with three home runs, 22 RBIs and a .877 OPS in Triple-A Reno, according to MILB.com. Known for his disciplined approach at the plate and ability to drive the ball to all fields, Waldschmidt gives Arizona a more consistent offensive presence in center field.
The DFA and promotion reflect the club’s push to stabilize its lineup and maintain momentum in the National League West race, even if it means parting ways with a fan favorite.