Diamondbacks pitcher Eduardo Rodríguez has seen significant improvement, lowering his ERA from 5.94 to 4.06 in the second half. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
Diamondbacks on the Verge of Playoff Spot
PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks find themselves in contention for a wild card spot with just two weeks left in a season that once seemed lost.
Season Outlook Changes
On July 31, the Diamondbacks held a record of 51-58 and traded away players like Josh Naylor and Eugenio Suarez at the MLB trade deadline. They were nine games behind in the National League wild card race and appeared headed for a disappointing campaign marred by injuries.
Surge in Performance
However, the team has exceeded expectations since, posting a 26-17 record, the fifth-best in the league. Their recent 6-5 victory against the San Francisco Giants, achieved through a walk-off hit that never left the infield, kept them just 1.5 games shy of a playoff position with 10 games left in the regular season.
Pitching Staff Transformation
The key factor in the Diamondbacks’ success in the second half has been their pitching staff. “It’s a culmination of the whole year’s work,” said starting pitcher Ryne Nelson. The starters have improved their performance, focusing on both their strengths and the weaknesses of opposing hitters.
Notable Improvements
Heading into the All-Star break, the team had a 4.65 ERA, ranking among the worst in the league. Post-break, they’ve reduced it to 4.09, with the starting rotation seeing a notable drop in ERA from 4.47 to 3.87, marking the sixth-largest improvement in baseball. Manager Torey Lovullo highlighted the change in their approach, blending strengths with better attacking strategies.
Young Bullpen Making Strides
The bullpen, while still modest with a 4.44 ERA in the second half, has also improved, decreasing their ERA from 4.94. The young pitchers are gaining experience, and Lovullo appreciates their eagerness to seize opportunities without the burden of ego, which has contributed to their collective success even amidst injuries.
Unyielding Team Spirit
Despite losing key players like ace Corbin Burnes to injuries, the pitching staff has remained resilient. “We’re not counting ourselves out,” said Nelson. “We prepare to win each day and maintain that mindset.” Their determination has been crucial in rejuvenating the team’s playoff aspirations.
