Despite trading several key players, the Arizona Diamondbacks remain in contention for a spot in the playoffs.
Arizona Diamondbacks Thriving Amidst Roster Changes
The Arizona Diamondbacks, despite a tumultuous off-season, have managed to keep their heads above water in the National League race. As of September 2025, the team is yet to name a new General Manager to oversee the restructuring process, with Mike Hazen leading the charge alongside Deputy General Manager Amiel Sawdaye.
One player who has stood out in this period is Blaze Alexander, who has taken up the mantle at third base following the departure of Eugenio Suarez. Alexander has not only held his own but has also contributed in the outfield and at second base. His defensive prowess was on display in his first career start in center field, where he made a diving catch, and in left field, where he took a homer away from Alex Bergman with a leaping catch.
In the pitching department, Zac Gallen has returned to form, recording a 4-1 record and a 2.20 ERA in his last 13 appearances. Gallen's resurgence has been a significant boost to the Diamondbacks, who traded their NL leading home run hitter and most efficient pitcher at the July 31 trade deadline.
The Diamondbacks' offense has been a bright spot, despite defensive lapses. The team's top three hitters, Geraldo Perdomo, Ketel Marte, and Corbin Carroll, have been the driving force. Perdomo, in particular, has set career highs in homers (17), stolen bases (24), RBIs (91), and OPS (.834), leading major league shortstops in all these categories.
Carroll, too, has had a stellar season, with a career-high 30 homers and being on the brink of his first 30-30 season, with 25 steals. The trio of Perdomo, Marte, and Carroll are considered the common denominators of the team's success by manager Torey Lovullo.
The Diamondbacks' offense ranks third in the NL with 711 runs, and the team is on pace to break 800 runs this season, after leading the majors with 886 runs last year. However, defensive lapses have cost them games, as evident in their 7-4 loss to Boston on Sunday, where they could not hold a 3-1 lead.
Despite the slim margin for error, Corbin Carroll expressed enthusiasm about the team's playoff contention. Mike Hazen, too, has emphasized the need to focus on the present while also playing for the future, addressing the team in the clubhouse after the deadline deals.
The Diamondbacks' recent run of form has seen them climb to within 4 1/2 games of the New York Mets for the third NL wild card position. Since trading Suarez, first baseman Josh Naylor, starter Merrill Kelly, and two other potential free agents, the team has a record of 21-14, making them the third-most victorious team in the majors.
In the bullpen, Andrew Saalfrank has stepped into a high leverage role, holding opponents to a .186 batting average and earning his first three career saves in the last three weeks. Saalfrank's contributions have been instrumental in the Diamondbacks' recent success.
Alexander, too, has made an impact with his bat, recording seven homers, 18 RBIs, and an .864 OPS in his short tenure with the team. His versatility and offensive contributions have been a welcome addition to the Diamondbacks' roster.
As the season enters its final stretch, the Diamondbacks will look to capitalize on their recent form and secure a playoff spot. With a strong offense, a resurgent Gallen, and a steadfast defense, they are well-positioned to make a run for the post-season.
