It’s been an interesting season for Arizona Diamondbacks fans, to say the least. Even the kick-off against the Colorado Rockies was one for the books. The Diamondbacks scored a record 14 in a single inning, leading to a commanding win from opening day.
Since then, however, the season has taken a rollercoaster trajectory. At the moment, the D-Backs are treading water in the NL West, behind both the LA Dodgers and the San Diego Padres. Still, there’s plenty of hope there’s time for a turnaround and that the team could see a wild card push-through.
Unfortunately, it’s been an injury-ridden season. Despite the strong start and a seriously exciting roster, the D-Backs are now going to fight for a playoff position. This is thanks, at least in part, to losing a lot of their speed and smart base-runners to injury.
The odds also follow the seasonal performance trend. Anyone looking to bet on the MLB can see odds on Oddschecker, where the Diamondbacks remain an underdog in the National League. Though their odds have shortened slightly, the rest of the season will be an uphill battle against those odds. But all hope isn’t lost.
As the end approaches, here are a few of the highlights that fans have been treated to this season.
Corbin Carroll Effect
Last year’s Rookie of the Year winner has been a treat for D-Backs fans. Corbin Carroll got off to a slow start earlier this season, raising questions about the player’s future. However, that’s since turned into a much-needed hot streak for the team—which is good, because it’s likely Carroll will be staying until 2030.
Along with his performance on the field, Carroll has also endeared his new fanbase. He’s become the latest face of the franchise, spearheading advertising efforts, and charity fundraisers, and regularly appearing at other community events. That type of leadership is important, especially when the cards are down.
Gabriel Moreno Brings the Excitement
Carroll might be one of the latest faces of the franchise, but Gabriel Moreno is easily one of the standout players in the NL right now. The catcher looks okay at bat but is a force to be reckoned with defensively. Just like Carroll is coming off a Rookie of the Year nod, Moreno is fresh off a Gold Glove award from last year. And he’s also put his time in at community and charity events, too.
Unfortunately, Moreno is also a player who’s been facing time on the injured list. However, he’s not likely going anywhere, with a potential contract extension that could see him stick around until at least 2029.
Defense is Leading the League
Speaking of defense, the Diamondbacks have put on a masterclass this year. While the defense isn’t nearly as exciting as hitting home runs and showing serious speed, it’s going to be an important part of the team’s success as the season goes on—especially considering runners like Alek Thomas are out.
Moreno is one of the MLB’s leaders in terms of defense. But he’s not alone. The team also has Ketel Marte at second base and Christian Walker at first base. Both have been putting on a fantastic show for Diamondbacks fans this year.
What fans love: the Optimistic & Goofy Atmosphere
Aside from two new standout players and a seriously good defense, there’s one other highlight from this season: the upbeat atmosphere. As mentioned above, both Carroll and Moreno have put in extra work to show up for the D-Backs community—and it’s paying off.
Geraldo Perdomo has also become an important member of the team, encouraging other players and keeping the atmosphere in the dugout positive. Then there’s Lourdes Gurriel Jr’s hair — yet another huge addition to the clubhouse and all those watching in the stands.
