So...here are all of the teams that have more of a shot at the postseason than the Diamondbacks: Nationals, Indians, A's, Rays, Cubs, Phillies, Mets, Brewers.
...and the Red Sox have a better record.
So, needless to say...unless something spectacular happens, the Diamondbacks aren't going to the playoffs. This is an outcome the fans were expecting, but...with much less of a tumultuous journey to get there. The D-Backs have outdone expectations in their first year without Paul Goldschmidt, and despite losing Zack Greinke along the way, they're still 2nd in the NL West...in a year where 2nd in the NL West means absolutely nothing.
It's a little odd that David Peralta didn't exactly come through as the hero figure the D-Backs needed him to be, missing a bunch of games due to injuries, and only hitting modestly when he was healthy. Thankfully the team's utilized Ketel Marte, Eduardo Escobar, Christian Walker and Nick Ahmed similarly, to the point that the team hasn't needed a singular leadership figure. Marte is the standout, and could be the team leader in several things until his inevitable trade to a contender. Walker could have another strong season in 2020, but...is seeming like a very 2019 name.
At least the pitching is still pretty strong. Mike Leake's allergic to the NL West, but aside from him...Robbie Ray, Merrill Kelly, Zac Gallen, Luke Weaver when he returns from the IL, Alex Young and Taylor Clarke are all great rotation assets that all could be strong options in 2020.
What I'm saying is...in the chance that the Dodgers aren't as airtight next year as they have been, the D-Backs could be more of a playoff threat. This team, if it stays together, has a chance. And without Goldy and Greinke, that's pretty fantastic.
Coming Tomorrow- Speaking of Wild Card threats, the powerful shortstop from arguably the biggest WC team of the season.
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