The Arizona Diamondbacks are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2017, looking to go on a Cinderella run. It also marks the first time the Dbacks have made an appearance in the NLCS since 2007. No one ever thought that this team would go this far considering that it was still under rebuild mode.
Why The Arizona Diamondbacks Can Win It All This Year
Team Experience
The Diamondbacks have a bunch of veterans in the lineup who have a lot of experience when it comes to playing in the playoffs. Veterans like Evan Longoria, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., and Tommy Pham, all of whom have playoff experience. That is going to be a factor as they play teams throughout the playoffs.
Not to mention when it comes to the postseason, it’s a very different animal. So, it’s safe to say not to doubt the Dbacks just because it’s their first trip to the NLCS in a while. They have the team to bring their second trophy back to Arizona if they can just bring their A-game with them every game.
Strength of the Starting Rotation
The pitching duo featuring Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly has proven to be deadly this season. In addition, the aces have combined for 15 wins while posting an ERA around of 3.00. That is something that is going to be monitored as the Dbacks get through the NLCS round.
If both pitchers can be the same pitchers that they were in the last round against the Los Angeles Dodgers then they have a good shot of advancing to the World Series. Currently, they face a tough 2-0 deficit against a Philadelphia Phillies team that’s coming off a series win against the NL East division winner the Atlanta Braves. Again, the pitching needs to really come through for the Dbacks to have a chance.
Determination
If there’s one team that is determined to make great things happen other than the Phillies it’s the Diamondbacks. Currently, they’re just a young and inexperienced team when it comes to the playoffs. But the way things are looking, there’s a decent chance that this team can go somewhere.
The last time they won the World Series dates back to 2001 when they defeated the New York Yankees in seven games. They’re playing with a lot of heart and determination that’s why the Diamondbacks have come to surprise a lot of people.
They Can Hit
This season, the Diamondbacks have proven to be one of the best all-around offensive teams in the game. Not to mention, at least five starters this year have managed to hit at least around .280. Arizona, this year, owns the third-best batting average and strikes out the third least in MLB. And this is very impressive considering that it’s even coming from rookie sensational Corbin Carroll.
This season, Carroll hit .285/.362/.506 with 25 home runs and 54 stolen bases. He could well be on his way to win the 2023 National League Rookie of the Year award. That’s something to keep an eye on this Diamondbacks team as the playoff progresses. Overall, they have consistency as a team this year.
The Strength of The Bullpen
The back end of the bullpen has been an issue for the Diamondbacks this season for the most part. That narrative changed once Arizona acquired closer Paul Sewald from the Seattle Mariners ahead of this year’s trade deadline. This trade has turned out to be a big win for the Dbacks as they have found the solution to their problem. Then, there’s set-up man Kevin Ginkel who has turned out to become a phenomenal reliever. If these two can continue to be lights out then watch out for the Diamondbacks.
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