From the Cellar to the Spotlight: Diamondbacks' Epic Turnaround
In a season marked by dramatic shifts and extraordinary comebacks, the Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as one of Major League Baseball's most compelling stories of 2023. As recently as June 28, the Diamondbacks found themselves mired in mediocrity with a 39-43 record. They were under .500, trailing the third wild-card spot by three-and-a-half games, and sitting 11-and-a-half games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West. Fast forward to mid-August, and Arizona now stands atop the wild-card race with a six-game cushion for a postseason berth.
Remarkable Improvement
Since June 29, the Diamondbacks have been on a tear, posting a stunning 29-10 record. They’ve won nine out of their last ten games and 17 of their previous 20. Their three losses in that span came by a combined four runs, a testament to the team's resilience and competitive edge. Arizona hasn't lost a series since late June, boasting a 12-0-1 record in their last 13 series. This surge has catapulted them into the spotlight, with even FanGraphs noting their postseason odds skyrocketing from 40.5% to a staggering 91.5% during this 17-3 stretch.
Key Contributions Despite Obstacles
Remarkably, the Diamondbacks have achieved this despite dealing with significant adversity. Christian Walker, a potent bat in their lineup, has been sidelined with an oblique strain since July 30. Catcher Gabriel Moreno also suffered a groin strain last week, further depleting Arizona's roster. Paul Sewald, originally the team's closer, had to be removed from the role due to struggles, but relievers like Justin Martinez have stepped up, going three for three in save opportunities.
Utility man Jake McCarthy encapsulated the team's spirit, stating, "It's been awesome. But, you know, we want to continue to improve on this, and take this into September and the postseason." McCarthy himself has been outstanding, hitting .460/.477/.730 in his last 17 games.
Offensive Firepower
Much of Arizona's success can be attributed to an offensive surge. Over the past 20 games, the Diamondbacks are hitting a torrid .305/.368/.565 and averaging 6.90 runs per game. Corbin Carroll, who struggled early in the season with a batting line of .192/.278/.279 as of June 5, has since made significant strides, now slashing .248/.336/.491 in his last 243 plate appearances. New acquisition Josh Bell has been impressive, hitting .300/.352/.660 with four home runs in just 14 games. The platoon of Randal Grichuk and Joc Pederson has been a revelation at DH, combining for a .287/.379/.519 line with 26 home runs.
Key moments have underpinned their resurgence, such as Adrian Del Castillo's walk-off homer against the Phillies and Alek Thomas' clutch two-run single against the Blue Jays. The Diamondbacks' lineup has proven deep and versatile, with numerous players contributing at critical junctures.
Pitching Syncs Up
Arizona’s pitching staff, shuffled and reshuffled throughout the season, has also hit its stride. The team has used 14 different starting pitchers this season, and their current rotation includes stalwarts like Merrill Kelly, Jordan Montgomery, Eduardo Rodriguez, Zac Gallen, and Brandon Pfaadt. Kelly impressed in his return, holding the Phillies to two runs over five innings. Rodriguez, making his season debut late but strong, has already contributed two starts. Meanwhile, A.J. Puk has fortified the bullpen, surrendering just one run while striking out 11 in 6 2/3 innings since joining the team.
As the Diamondbacks surge toward the playoffs, they do so with a blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned resilience. Their transformation from a middling team to a postseason contender has been nothing short of extraordinary. With a six-game cushion and their eyes set firmly on October, the Diamondbacks are poised for a thrilling conclusion to an already remarkable season.