PHOENIX — In roughly 48 hours, the Arizona Diamondbacks will face one of three potential scenarios. Unfortunately, they cannot dictate their own fate in any of them. Each scenario carries shared characteristics: stress, anxiety, and pressure.
They might secure an NL wild card spot, achieving the franchise’s second consecutive postseason berth in over two decades. Alternatively, they could miss the playoffs altogether, squandering the 83.1 percent odds that Fangraphs assigned them earlier this week. Or they may conclude the weekend uncertain of their status, focusing on Monday’s Mets-Braves doubleheader — a situation that poses a significant challenge for the defending National League champions.
With their 5-3 loss to the Padres in the series opener on Friday, the Diamondbacks were officially knocked out of playoff contention. As they head into the final two games of the regular season, they’re in a near tie with the New York Mets and Atlanta Braves, both of whom hold the tiebreaker advantage.
“People are asking me about the state of our team, if we’re alright,” said Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo. “We’re excellent. We’re just fine.”
After trailing 4-0 in the first inning, the Diamondbacks fought back, scoring two runs in the bottom half, initiated by Corbin Carroll’s impressive 412-foot solo homer. However, one of the most formidable offenses in the NL could not complete the comeback against Yu Darvish and the formidable Padres bullpen.
To avoid sweating through the Mets-Braves doubleheader on Monday, the Diamondbacks must win their remaining two games against the Padres and hope for some support. They will need either the Mets to lose two more to the Brewers or the Braves to drop two to the Royals, putting the Diamondbacks in the postseason regardless of Monday’s outcomes.
However, if either of those scenarios fails to materialize, the Diamondbacks’ best chance rests on the results of the Mets-Braves doubleheader determining their fate.
As of Saturday morning, the Diamondbacks’ playoff odds had decreased to 33.7 percent, falling behind the Mets (71.2 percent) and the Braves (91.1 percent).
One slight positive for the Diamondbacks is that the Padres secured wild card home-field advantage on Friday, indicating that the final two games against the Diamondbacks will not affect their playoff positioning.
Lovullo has often reminded everyone how their unexpected journey to the World Series started last season, recounting a 1-0 loss to the Houston Astros in their second-to-last regular season game that held little weight after a Reds defeat cemented a wild card spot for the Diamondbacks. His point: His team successfully navigated tight postseason margins around this time a year ago, and they are capable of doing it again — but they will need help, once more.
A crowd of 43,310 — the eighth-largest attendance at Chase Field this season — witnessed the Diamondbacks’ fourth loss in five games. The franchise is on track to achieve its highest average home attendance since 2008. That’s about the only certainty as two games remain.
The question of whether the home team will reward an evidently energized fan base with a wild card spot remains uncertain.
More likely than not, the outcome will hinge on the Mets or Braves.
“It was impressive to see the fans tonight and the energy they brought,” said reliever Kevin Ginkel. “We hope we can deliver for them.”
(Top photo of manager Torey Lovullo on Saturday: Chris Coduto / Getty Images)
Diamondbacks’ Postseason Aspirations on the Line as Tension Mounts in Final Games
Understanding the Stakes: The Diamondbacks’ Current Standings
The Arizona Diamondbacks are currently navigating a critical juncture in their MLB season, with their postseason aspirations hanging by a thread. As the regular season approaches its climax, the Diamondbacks find themselves in a tight race for the playoffs. Understanding the team’s standings and their recent performance is essential for fans and analysts alike.
Current Standings Overview
| Team | Wins | Losses | Win Percentage | Games Behind |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona Diamondbacks | 80 | 72 | .526 | 5.0 |
| San Francisco Giants | 85 | 67 | .558 | – |
| Los Angeles Dodgers | 90 | 62 | .592 | – |
Key Players to Watch
The Diamondbacks’ push for the postseason heavily relies on the performance of several key players. Here are some individuals who are pivotal to the team’s success:
- Ketel Marte: As a versatile player, Marte has been a driving force at the plate, leading the team in batting average and on-base percentage.
- Corbin Carroll: The rookie sensation has quickly become a fan favorite, bringing energy to the outfield and contributing crucial hits in high-pressure situations.
- Zac Gallen: The ace of the pitching staff, Gallen’s ability to shut down opposing lineups is crucial in must-win games.
- Christian Walker: Walker’s power potential is essential for providing the run support necessary to win tight games.
Recent Performance Analysis
As the Diamondbacks approach the end of the season, analyzing their recent performance reveals trends that could influence their chances of making the playoffs.
Offensive Trends
- Power Numbers: The Diamondbacks have shown flashes of power, contributing to a solid home run total that ranks them in the middle of the league.
- On-base Percentage: Improving their on-base percentage is crucial. The team has struggled at times to get runners on base, limiting scoring opportunities.
Defensive Strengths and Weaknesses
- Fielding: The Diamondbacks have demonstrated solid defensive play, with key players making game-saving catches and smart plays in critical moments.
- Pitching Depth: The depth of the pitching rotation will be tested in the final games, as fatigue can become a factor in performance.
Upcoming Schedule: Must-Win Games
The Diamondbacks’ remaining schedule is not for the faint of heart. Here are their upcoming opponents and the significance of each matchup:
| Date | Opponent | Home/Away | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 25 | San Diego Padres | Home | Critical matchup against a division rival. |
| September 27 | San Francisco Giants | Away | Key game that could dictate playoff positioning. |
| September 30 | Los Angeles Dodgers | Home | Final game of the regular season; a must-win. |
Fan Engagement and Community Support
The role of fans in the postseason aspirations of the Diamondbacks cannot be overstated. Engaging the community and maintaining a vibrant fan base is essential for team morale. Here are some ways fans can contribute:
- Attend Games: Show support by attending the final home games and bringing energy to Chase Field.
- Social Media Engagement: Engage with the team’s social media platforms to show support and rally fellow fans to create a buzz around the team.
- Merchandise Purchases: Wearing team gear and showing pride in the community can boost player morale and enhance the atmosphere.
Benefits of Making the Postseason
The implications of a postseason berth extend beyond just the games. Here are some benefits that making the playoffs can bring to the Diamondbacks organization and the fans:
- Increased Revenue: Playoff games often lead to higher attendance and merchandise sales, contributing to the team’s financial health.
- Player Development: Young players gain invaluable experience in high-stakes situations, which can be crucial for their development.
- Community Pride: A postseason run fosters a sense of pride and unity among fans and the local community.
Expert Insights and Predictions
As the Diamondbacks gear up for their final games, analysts and experts weigh in on their chances of making the playoffs.
Case Studies from Previous Seasons
Looking back at previous seasons, several teams faced similar challenges but managed to secure playoff spots. Here are some notable examples:
- 2018 Oakland Athletics: The A’s won 11 of their last 14 games to clinch a Wild Card spot.
- 2020 Miami Marlins: The Marlins made a surprising playoff push, showing that determination can pay off.
Expert Predictions
Sports analysts are divided on the Diamondbacks’ chances. Some feel that their recent form points to a strong finish, while others caution that injuries and fatigue could impede their success. Key factors that will influence their postseason hopes include:
- Consistency in pitching performances
- Ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities
- Effective management of player fatigue and injuries
Final Thoughts
As the Arizona Diamondbacks face their final games of the regular season, the tension mounts and every pitch counts. Their postseason aspirations rest on the shoulders of their talented roster, dedicated fans, and strategic gameplay. With the right approach, the Diamondbacks have the potential to make a significant impact in the postseason and further solidify their legacy.
