D-Backs Slither Between Buying and Selling at the Deadline
Photo by: Matt Kartozian (USA Today Sports)
Along with the other gauntlet of teams in playoff contention, the D-Backs are taking a very cautious and careful approach to the deadline. Though they took the MLB world by storm in the first half, they’ve cooled down, a record of three and seven in their last 10 games, and slid to third place in the National League West behind the Dodgers by four games for the lead as well as the Giants, trailing them by a game. However, they are only half a game out in the National League Wild Card race, which has been and seems to continue to be a dogfight.
Photo by: Joe Camporeale (USA Today Sports)
Photo by: Charles LeClaire (USA Today Sports)
They’ve proven themselves so far, especially with the offense and play of position players, but pitching is the main concern and need at the deadline. The one-two punch of Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly has been fantastic for the D-Backs rotation, joined by young arms in Tommy Henry, Ryne Nelson, and Brandon Pfaadt. Another arm, maybe one with more experience come playoff time might do wonders. The bullpen also needs to solidify, finding a late-inning reliever who can handle high-leverage end-of-game situations. The question is, what would they have to give up to obtain a pitching piece, and who are the untouchable pieces of the Major League roster?
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They also have leverage and pieces that would help some other teams who are in slightly better positions, should they decide to sell. Parting with any of their young All-Stars or players with the potential to fill a vital role for a potential playoff run seems unlikely. But everything is up for grabs in the playoff race; nothing is given, especially in a division as competitive as the National League West.
However, it makes sense if they stay mostly pat with the team they have now. They’ve gotten this far in the season and sneak-attacked the rest of the league. Doubts have swarmed Arizona, but the D-Backs have proven to hang around and vie for playoff contention.