Diamondbacks Features
A Different Diamondbacks’ Offseason Report Card
Did the team improve?
A Perspective of Diamondbacks’ Saves in Relief
An improved bullpen will dramatically increase saves. The closer will likely be a platoon of Mark Melancon and one of the newly acquired relievers.
A Perspective on Sustainability of the Diamondbacks
Although full sustainability is not yet achieved, sustainability was increased in five ways.
What Are Pavin Smith’s Batting Strengths?
Three strengths stood out.
Who Will Be Next Season’s Unsung Hero for the Diamondbacks?
It’s very much unpredictable. That didn’t stop me from identifying the most promising players.
A Perspective of Diamondbacks’ Rebuilt Offense
Despite the trade, Diamondbacks will likely win more games.
Closer Depth: Zach McAllister
Will he be called up to close games?
A Perspective of the Diamondbacks’ Rebuilt Bullpen
If the season started now, who would pitch in the bullpen based on strikeouts, whiffs, and balls in play.
Instant Replay Challenges by Diamondbacks
They ranked high in the NL West. When they challenged close calls at first base, hit by pitch, and tag plays, their success rate was higher than average in the Majors.
Mark Melancon Could Surprise Fans
He is a strong bounce-back candidate.
Four-Team Players
Sergio Alcantara is one of them.
Who Will Play Shortstop for the Diamondbacks?
Returning are Nick Ahmed & Geraldo Perdomo. Possible promotions are Blaze Alexander & Jordan Lawlar.
Which Relief Pitcher is Worth Acquiring via Trade?
Four previously considered acquisition candidates were compared by looking at strikes and balls in play.
My View on Improving the Diamondbacks
My priority would be improve pitching to average. Young batters will improve largely due to the ban on shifts. The balanced schedule will add wins.
Kyle Backhus
Is he a diamond in the rough?
Danny Jansen
Will the Diamondbacks acquire him?
Matt Strahm
Will the Diamondbacks acquire him?
Diamondbacks Were Amazing After All-Star Break
Except for lacking a breakout season by David Peralta, everything happened that I wanted to see!
Arm Strength of Diamondback Fielders
They have above average arm strength in positions where it matters, such as third base and right field. In addition, they have above average arm strength at second base and left field.
Reyes Moronta
Pitching better than league average, he is a valuable addition to the Diamondback bullpen. Perhaps next season he could be a closer.
An Alternative to Pitcher-of-Record Wins & Losses
The Diamondback starters’ performances were very much improved this season through 15 September compared to last season.
Who Should Play Third Base for the Diamondbacks?
Based on results in August and September, my choice is a platoon of Emmanuel Rivera and Sergio Alcantara
Closer By Committee in August
The impact of closing by committee was likely positive.
Diamondbacks Build Innings
Four insights are revealed.
Diamondbacks’ Catchers Update
Five catchers played this season; more will be ready soon.
August Players Provide Glimpses of Next Season’s Diamondbacks
Young position players were best in the Majors in baserunning. They trended towards excellence in defense and scoring runs.
The Emmanuel Rivera Trade
The trade improved both teams. Emmanuel Rivera has significant potential to improve.
What Explains Blue Jays Improvement?
Let’s compare before and after a new interim manager.
What I’d Like to See: Post All-Star Break
Let’s look at five things.
MLB Women’s Baseball Day
I asked a question. A year later, again I ask the same question.
Diamondback Batters Will Improve
Like David Peralta, young D-backs’ swings will likely improve for several years.