PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks have opted to delay a decision regarding the fifth spot in their rotation for as long as possible.
Jordan Montgomery is set to make his regularly scheduled start against the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday. The Diamondbacks have notified Ryne Nelson to stay prepared for a potential relief appearance.
However, if Nelson is not called upon to pitch in relief, the plan is for him to start on Friday against the Tampa Bay Rays, Arizona’s first game following an off day on Thursday, according to manager Torey Lovullo.
Lovullo has clarified that the Diamondbacks prefer to avoid a six-man rotation due to the long breaks it creates between outings for their top starters, especially with additional off days factored in.
Despite this, the team might consider a six-man rotation for one turn, as the decision has proven to be complex.
When asked whether the option of moving Montgomery to the bullpen had been considered, Lovullo remarked that they have discussed “every aspect of what we could possibly do.”
“We’re very fluid in that space; he will be ready to pitch on Wednesday if called upon, but a decision hasn’t been made yet,” Lovullo stated. “It depends on how we progress and what occurs over the next two days. Given the off day and a fully rested bullpen, it doesn’t make sense to extend that situation. He provides us with some protection until we arrive at a final decision.”
This season, the Diamondbacks invested significantly in what they anticipated would be one of the most robust starting rotations, featuring Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, Eduardo Rodriguez, Brandon Pfaadt, and Montgomery. They added Rodriguez and Montgomery as major free-agent acquisitions, totaling $45 million for the 2024 season.
Their starting five hadn’t fully united until Sunday, when Kelly returned from the 60-day injured list. There was a period when Pfaadt was the only healthy pitcher among the group.
Nelson stepped up impressively, leading the Diamondbacks’ pitchers in innings (77.1), strikeouts (64), and fWAR (1.7) since June. He ranks tied for sixth in Major League Baseball for innings pitched since June 1. Over 13 appearances in that timeframe, Nelson boasts a 3.72 ERA.
He also carries bullpen experience, unlike Montgomery, who has not achieved the same level of success on the mound this season with a 0.5 fWAR.
During his college years at Oregon, Nelson served as a reliever — also playing shortstop — and successfully closed 10 games. Last postseason, he worked as a long reliever when the D-backs shortened their rotation, even opting for bullpen games instead of starting Nelson.
Montgomery excelled as a starter throughout college, the minors, and now in the majors. He joined Arizona with a career ERA of 3.68 but has struggled this season, posting a 6.37 ERA over 17 starts.
“We improved significantly when Merrill returned, so I believe the team is on the rise,” Nelson stated. “Ultimately, it’s about doing whatever is necessary to secure wins. I feel this team is very special, and I cherish being part of it.”
“We must ensure we have coverage in every area so we can approach any game with confidence in our ability to win,” Lovullo emphasized.
Nelson does not appear interested in merely taking on mop-up duties during blowouts. His most memorable major league relief appearance occurred in the World Series when the D-backs were in a challenging position. He pitched 5.1 innings, allowing one earned run, which preserved the bullpen for subsequent games.
If he transitions to the bullpen, Nelson aims to seize the opportunity to showcase his skills.
“I don’t want to be viewed as just a guy who pitches when the game is out of reach,” Nelson asserted. “If I’m in the bullpen, I want the chance to make an impact and help contribute to victories… be an asset.”
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Diamondbacks Face Tough Choices in Fifth Rotation Spot as Season Progresses
The Importance of the Fifth Rotation Spot
In Major League Baseball, the fifth rotation spot is often seen as a luxury, but for teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks, it can be a critical piece in their quest for postseason success. The fifth starter can influence the overall effectiveness of the pitching staff, provide depth during the long season, and make or break a team’s chances in tight games. As the season progresses, the Diamondbacks find themselves needing to make some tough decisions regarding this pivotal position.
Current Contenders for the Fifth Spot
As of now, the Diamondbacks have several potential candidates vying for the fifth rotation spot. Each brings unique skills and challenges to the table:
- Ryan Nelson – The right-handed pitcher has shown flashes of brilliance, with a fastball that can reach the mid-90s. However, consistency has been an issue, and maintaining stamina throughout the season is vital for his success.
- Brandon Pfaadt - Known for his powerful strikeout ability, Pfaadt has the potential to be a game-changer. Nonetheless, his inexperience at the major league level raises questions about his ability to handle pressure.
- Tommy Henry – A lefty with a solid track record in the minors, Henry could provide balance against right-handed hitters. However, his command issues could hinder his effectiveness against strong lineups.
- Other Potential Candidates - The Diamondbacks may also consider using a combination of pitchers or even recalling options from their minor leagues as the season progresses.
Evaluating Performance Metrics
When assessing the candidates for the fifth rotation spot, the Diamondbacks will rely on various performance metrics. Here are some key statistics they will consider:
| Pitcher | ERA | WHIP | Strikeouts/9 Innings | Innings Pitched |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ryan Nelson | 4.15 | 1.27 | 8.50 | 120 |
| Brandon Pfaadt | 3.92 | 1.10 | 9.30 | 90 |
| Tommy Henry | 4.50 | 1.40 | 7.75 | 100 |
Benefits of a Stable Fifth Starter
Having a reliable fifth starter can yield numerous benefits for the Diamondbacks as they navigate the demands of the MLB season.
- Increased Depth: A solid fifth starter can provide much-needed depth during stretches where the team faces injuries or fatigue.
- Consistent Performance: A pitcher who can log innings helps to reduce the burden on the bullpen, which is crucial for maintaining overall team performance.
- Strategic Matchups: A capable fifth starter allows the coaching staff to manipulate matchups better, particularly against teams with strong lineups.
- Development Opportunities: By providing younger pitchers with a chance to start, the Diamondbacks can develop their talent while still competing.
Challenges in Selecting a Fifth Starter
While the benefits are clear, the Diamondbacks face several challenges in selecting the right pitcher for the fifth rotation spot:
- Performance Variability: Inconsistency in performance can lead to unpredictable outings, which may disrupt the team’s rhythm.
- Injury Concerns: Pitchers are often prone to injuries, and relying too heavily on a single fifth starter can be risky.
- Depth in the Farm System: The quality and readiness of minor league options can impact the decision-making process significantly.
- Team Chemistry: Integrating a new pitcher into the rotation can affect existing dynamics, making it crucial to choose wisely.
Case Study: Historical Performance of Fifth Starters
Looking back at the Diamondbacks’ history reveals some interesting insights into the impact of their fifth starters. Over the years, several pitchers have stepped up to fill this role effectively:
| Year | Pitcher | Win-Loss Record | ERA | Innings Pitched |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Robbie Ray | 15-5 | 2.89 | 162 |
| 2015 | Rubby De La Rosa | 14-8 | 4.67 | 174 |
| 2011 | Josh Collmenter | 10-10 | 3.38 | 141 |
Practical Tips for Making the Right Choice
The Diamondbacks can optimize their decision-making process by adhering to a few practical tips:
- Monitor Pitching Patterns: Pay close attention to how each candidate performs against various lineups and conditions.
- Utilize Advanced Metrics: Leverage analytics to assess each pitcher’s effectiveness and potential for improvement.
- Promote Open Communication: Ensure that coaching staff and pitchers engage in candid discussions regarding expectations and strategies.
- Be Ready to Adapt: The MLB season is long, and being flexible with rotation decisions can lead to better outcomes.
First-Hand Experience: Players’ Perspectives
Insights from players can often provide a deeper understanding of the pressures and expectations associated with being a fifth starter:
“Being a fifth starter sometimes feels like a balancing act. You want to prove yourself, but you also have to follow the game plan set by the coaches. It’s all about finding your rhythm and helping the team win.” – Ryan Nelson
“Every time I take the mound, I want to give my team a chance to win. The fifth spot is just as important as any other; it’s about consistency and stepping up when it matters.” – Brandon Pfaadt
The Future of the Fifth Rotation Spot
As the Diamondbacks continue to evaluate their options for the fifth rotation spot, the landscape of the MLB is ever-changing. With the increasing emphasis on analytics, player conditioning, and matchup strategies, the decisions made now will have lasting implications for the team’s success this season and beyond.
Conclusion
The challenges ahead for the Diamondbacks regarding their fifth rotation spot are significant, but the potential rewards make this an essential focus as the season progresses. Effective management of this role can provide the team with the edge needed to clinch a coveted playoff spot.
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