The Arizona Diamondbacks' Tremendous Turnaround: From Median Performers to Top Contenders
As recently as June 28, the Arizona Diamondbacks were struggling with a 39-43 record, hovering just below the .500 mark. They trailed the third wild-card spot by 3 1/2 games, with four teams ahead of them, and they lagged a hefty 11 1/2 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West. Fast forward to August 14, and the narrative has dramatically shifted. The Diamondbacks now stand atop the wild-card race, fortified by a six-game cushion for a postseason berth.
This remarkable turnaround can be attributed to the team’s extraordinary 29-10 record since June 29. Over that stretch, Arizona has dominated, winning nine of their last ten games and 17 of their last 20. Notably, their three losses were close contests, with a combined margin of just four runs. Impressively, they've not lost a series since late June, boasting a 12-0-1 record in their last 13 series.
Injuries and Struggles
The Diamondbacks’ success is even more remarkable considering the setbacks they've faced. Christian Walker has been sidelined with an oblique strain since July 30, and Gabriel Moreno suffered a groin strain last week. Additionally, Paul Sewald had to be removed from the closer's role due to struggles. Despite these challenges, other players have stepped up to fill the gaps.
Notably, Corbin Carroll, who had been underperforming with a .192/.278/.279 batting line in 254 plate appearances as of June 5, has rebounded significantly. His current slash line stands at .248/.336/.491 over the last 243 plate appearances. Meanwhile, Josh Bell has been another key contributor, hitting .300/.352/.660 with four home runs in just 14 games, and Jake McCarthy has been on fire, hitting .460/.477/.730 in his last 17 games.
Pitching Depth
The Diamondbacks have utilized an impressive 14 different starting pitchers this season, demonstrating their pitching depth. The current rotation includes Merrill Kelly, Jordan Montgomery, Eduardo Rodriguez, Zac Gallen, and Brandon Pfaadt. Merrill Kelly, for instance, impressed by holding the Phillies to two runs over five innings during his return. Eduardo Rodriguez, making his season debut more recently, has also contributed two solid starts.
New Closer
The team made a pivotal move by appointing Justin Martinez as the new closer, and it has paid off handsomely. Martinez is a perfect 3 for 3 in save opportunities since taking over. A.J. Puk has also proven to be a valuable addition, surrendering just one run while striking out 11 in 6 2/3 innings since joining the team.
Offensive Surge
The Diamondbacks' offense has been a driving force behind this incredible run. Over the past 20 games, the team is hitting .305/.368/.565 and averaging 6.90 runs per game. Clutch moments have abounded: Adrian Del Castillo delivered a walk-off homer against the Phillies, and Alek Thomas hit a game-tying two-run single against the Blue Jays. The designated hitter platoon of Randal Grichuk and Joc Pederson has also been strong, hitting .287/.379/.519 with 26 home runs.
Postseason Prospects
During this remarkable 17-3 stretch, Arizona's postseason odds have skyrocketed from 40.5% to an impressive 91.5%, according to FanGraphs. This surge offers a strong signal to Diamondbacks fans that their team is not only aiming for the playoffs but intends to make a significant impact once there. "It's been awesome. But, you know, we want to continue to improve on this, and take this into September and the postseason," said Jake McCarthy, encapsulating the team's focused yet optimistic mindset.
As August progresses, the Arizona Diamondbacks have transformed from middling performers into formidable contenders, capturing the attention and admiration of baseball fans and analysts alike. If this trend continues, Arizona could become one of the most compelling stories of the MLB postseason.