When you think of the big teams in the National West, it’s often the Dodgers and Padres that grab the spotlight. After all, the two teams have the appearance of teams that we see at the All-Star Game and they have been engaged in a great rivalry for a few years.
It often goes to the advantage of the Dodgers, but in the 2022 playoffs, it was the Padres who had the last laugh.
But today, I want to talk to you about another formation within this division which, in my opinion, has the resources to surprise in 2023: the Diamondbacks of Arizona.
Admittedly, the DBacks don’t bet on a ton of star players, but a bit like the Baltimore Orioles, they are led by several excellent young players who are likely to make noise in the coming months.
The most talented (and my favourite) of the group is Corbin Carroll. The outfielder, who is expected to patrol center field this season, is exceptionally fast and should bring a spark to the lineup.
Last year, we saw the club improve greatly following his arrival, and I believe it will be the same thing next season.
In the outfield, the loss of Daulton Varsho will hurt, but Jake McCarthy and Alek Thomas are two other excellent young outfielders who are likely to be talked about for the right reasons.
Also, guys like Christian Walker, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., Josh Rojas and Evan Longoria will bring some offense to the roster, while Carson Kelly and Nick Ahmed will solidify the defense.
And that’s not to mention Ketel Marte, who remains an excellent player despite the fact that he has been under the radar for a few months.
On the mound, there are also interesting arms. Zac Gallen is a Cy Young trophy contender and he will be well supported with Merrill Kelly and Madison Bumgarner. It’s a little thin after that, but Ryne Nelson, another big prospect for the organization, could surprise.
Drey Jameson, Tommy Henry, Brandon Pfaadt and Blake Walston are also big prospects who could make the jump.
The bullpen is the club’s big weakness, but Andrew Chafin is an interesting signing. Kevin Ginkel, Mark Melancon, Miguel Castro and Joe Mantiply aren’t bad guys, but we’re not talking elite relievers either.
That said, the Diamonbacks had quite the end of the season last year following the arrival of Corbin Carroll in the Majors, and with so many good young players, there is reason to believe that they could surprise.
I get wet right away: I see them deliver a hot fight to the Phillies for the last ticket available for the playoffs in the National. And if all goes well for the DBacks, I really wouldn’t be surprised to see them get into the playoffs and force the Phillies to watch the playoffs from their living room.
