As we approach the critical stretch of the Major League Baseball season, few stories are as compelling as the Arizona Diamondbacks’ remarkable turnaround. As recently as June 28, the team found itself in a precarious position, holding a 39-43 record. Trailing the third wild-card spot by 3 1/2 games with four teams ahead of them, and 11 1/2 games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West, the postseason seemed a distant dream. Fast forward to August 14, and the Diamondbacks have reversed their fortunes in dramatic fashion, standing atop the wild-card race with a comfortable six-game cushion for a postseason berth.
Since June 29, the Diamondbacks have posted a remarkable 29-10 record, including winning nine of their last ten games and 17 of their last 20. The team has demonstrated resilience, with their three losses during this stretch coming by a combined total of just four runs. Additionally, they haven't lost a series since late June, achieving a 12-0-1 record in their last 13 series since June 27.
Distinct Challenges Overcome
This turnaround has not come without its challenges. Key players such as Christian Walker and Gabriel Moreno have been sidelined with injuries. Walker has been out with an oblique strain since July 30, while Moreno suffered a groin strain last week. Moreover, Paul Sewald was taken out of the closer's role due to struggles, yet the team’s bullpen found new life through Justin Martinez, who remains perfect in save opportunities since taking over the closer role. A.J. Puk has been a revelation, surrendering just one run and striking out 11 over 6 2/3 innings since joining the team.
Rising Stars and Impact Players
The team’s resurgence can be attributed to the breakout performances of several players. Corbin Carroll, who had a lackluster .192/.278/.279 batting line in 254 plate appearances as of June 5, has since found his groove, slashing .248/.336/.491 in his last 243 plate appearances. Meanwhile, Josh Bell has been tearing it up, hitting an impressive .300/.352/.660 with four home runs in just 14 games. Jake McCarthy has been even hotter, hitting an outstanding .460/.477/.730 over his last 17 games.
The Diamondbacks have also shown depth and versatility, using 14 different starting pitchers this season. The current rotation – featuring Merrill Kelly, Jordan Montgomery, Eduardo Rodriguez, Zac Gallen, and Brandon Pfaadt – has held up under pressure. Kelly, who returned to action recently, held the Phillies to two runs over five innings during his comeback. Rodriguez has contributed solidly with two starts since his season debut last week.
Offensive Surge
Arizona's offense has been nothing short of explosive, hitting .305/.368/.565 over the past 20 games and averaging nearly seven runs per game in that span. Clutch moments have also played a crucial role; Adrian Del Castillo hit a walk-off homer against the Phillies, and Alek Thomas delivered a game-tying two-run single against the Blue Jays. The designated hitter (DH) platoon of Randal Grichuk and Joc Pederson has further bolstered the lineup, hitting .287/.379/.519 with 26 home runs combined.
Postseason Prospects
During this remarkable 17-3 stretch, Arizona’s postseason odds have skyrocketed from 40.5% to 91.5%, according to FanGraphs. While this remarkable turnaround is exciting, the team is not resting on its laurels. As outfielder Jake McCarthy put it, "It's been awesome. But, you know, we want to continue to improve on this, and take this into September and the postseason."
In a season defined by surprises, the Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as a formidable force, blending young talent, key veteran contributions, and a resilient team spirit to transform their season. As they march towards a potential postseason berth, all eyes will be on this team to see just how far they can go.