The Arizona Diamondbacks must spend the coming months processing the frustration of another postseason elimination decided by an extremely narrow margin.

With the possibility of a lockout looming, Arizona may need to complete its roster additions early in the offseason.

The Diamondbacks are unlikely to have considerable money available for free agents, but several areas of the roster cannot remain unchanged if the team hopes to contend again in 2027.

First base must rank among Arizona’s highest priorities along with manager Torey Lovullo’s future. The Diamondbacks cannot afford to ignore the position for another season.

Arizona received the lowest production from its collection of first basemen in MLB, with the group combining for a .636 OPS. That figure ranked last by nearly 30 points.

Ildemaro Vargas appeared throughout the field and covered first base in 74 games. He enjoyed an impressive offensive stretch early in the season but eventually cooled considerably.

Tim Tawa played first base in 51 games and produced several encouraging moments, but his overall performance did not reach an elite level. He hit .240 with 11 home runs, 42 RBIs and a .689 OPS in 104 games this season.

Carlos Santana was expected to begin the year as Arizona’s starting first baseman. However, he appeared in only eight games and went 2-for-24 (.083) with a run scored.

Jose Fernandez, LuJames Groover and Tyler Locklear also received opportunities at first base but could not establish themselves in MLB.

Pavin Smith struggled before the Diamondbacks designated him for assignment. He returned in September but continued having difficulty producing consistently. Smith finished the season hitting .183 with three home runs, 12 RBIs and a .556 OPS in 40 games.

First base traditionally provides a lineup with meaningful offensive production, whether through pure power or success with runners in scoring position. Arizona received neither from its first basemen this season.

The Diamondbacks must treat the position seriously in 2027 and acquire a permanent solution capable of delivering when needed.

Their ideal addition should provide more than occasional home runs. Arizona needs a dependable hitter who can control the strike zone, extend at-bats and punish mistakes without becoming overly vulnerable to difficult pitching.

Consistency will be essential. The Diamondbacks cannot continue rotating several players through first base while hoping one temporarily produces enough to keep the position functional.

A reliable first baseman should also offer composure in run-producing situations. Arizona needs someone comfortable hitting in the middle of the lineup and capable of handling the responsibility that accompanies those opportunities.

Defensive dependability matters as well. A steady target at first base can support the entire infield, complete difficult plays and reduce pressure on teammates.

Power, patience, durability and situational hitting should define Arizona’s search. The Diamondbacks need a permanent answer rather than another collection of temporary possibilities.