"Sedona 9": Week #4

By Bryce Lewis

The D-backs wrapped up a 4–2 week, sweeping the Marlins in Miami and taking one of three against the Cubs in Chicago. Their record now stands at 13–9, and they're heading back to the desert with momentum.​

🔥 Top 3 Performers

Josh Naylor

Naylor was clutch this week. He delivered a walk-off single in the 11th inning on Sunday against the Cubs, part of a three-hit, two-RBI performance. Earlier in the week, he homered in each game of the Marlins series, showcasing his power and consistency at the plate. Naylor's bat has been a significant boost to the lineup.

Corbin Carroll

Carroll continued to be a spark plug at the top of the order. He extended his hitting streak to 12 games before it ended on Sunday. During the Marlins series, he stole three bases in a single game and scored twice, demonstrating his speed and baserunning acumen. Carroll also hit a leadoff homer against the Cubs, contributing to his impressive .323 batting average and 1.039 OPS for the season.

Jalen Beeks

Beeks has been a reliable arm out of the bullpen. Over three appearances this week, he pitched 2.2 innings, allowing just one hit and no runs while striking out five batters. His season ERA stands at an impressive 0.69, with a WHIP of 0.62, highlighting his effectiveness in limiting baserunners. Beeks' performance has been a stabilizing force for the Diamondbacks' bullpen.​

❌ Bottom 3 Performers

Zac Gallen

Gallen faced challenges in his start against the Cubs on Saturday. He allowed six runs in the first two innings, including back-to-back home runs. Despite settling down afterward, the early deficit was too much for the team to overcome. Gallen's season ERA has risen to 5.60, and he holds a 1-3 record, indicating a need for improvement in future outings.

Joe Mantiply

Mantiply's struggles continued this week, contributing to the bullpen's difficulties. He was part of the relief corps that surrendered six runs in the eighth inning on Friday, leading to a loss against the Cubs. Mantiply's season ERA is now at a concerning 15.95, with a WHIP of 3.00, reflecting ongoing challenges in his performances.

Eugenio Suárez

Suárez hit a grand slam during Friday's game, showcasing his power potential. However, his overall performance at the plate remains inconsistent. He holds a .145 batting average and a .674 OPS for the season, indicating struggles with contact and on-base percentage. Suárez's contributions are crucial, and the team will look for more consistent production moving forward.​

🧨 Top 3 Surprises

Drey Jameson's Return

Jameson made a notable return from Tommy John surgery, appearing in his first MLB game since July 2023. He secured the save on Sunday against the Cubs, recording an unassisted double play and retiring the side in order. Jameson's successful comeback adds depth to the Diamondbacks' bullpen and with his talent you and velocity you may have a hard time every removing him from this bullpen.

Aggressive Baserunning

The Diamondbacks displayed aggressive baserunning during the Marlins series, stealing six bases in a single game. Carroll led the charge with three steals, contributing to his two runs scored in that game. This approach put pressure on the Marlins' defense and played a key role in the team's sweep of the series.

Bullpen Decisions from D-backs Manager

Manager Torey Lovullo's bullpen management was under the spotlight AGAIN this week. The decision to bring in certain relievers during high-leverage situations, particularly in Friday's game against the Cubs, raised eyebrows as the bullpen surrendered six runs in the eighth inning. Joe Mantiply has just not had it this season and running him out there after a major comeback by the offense, only to surrender the lead again was a major blow for the fan base to swallow. This is no "big" surprise for Dbacks fans, as they have long grown tired of Lovullo's choices in bullpen matchups and timing

 Looking Ahead

Arizona returns home for a six-game homestand, starting with a three-game set against the Tampa Bay Rays followed by 3 more against the Atlanta Braves. With the NL West still looking like the best division on baseball, every win matters. This week offers a great chance for the D-backs to tighten up the bullpen, keep riding their red-hot bats, and make a statement in front of the home crowd at Chase Field.

Go Snakes. 🐍