Despite losing four of their last five, the Arizona Diamondbacks remain a resilient team.
The drive to the National League Wild Card destination for the Arizona Diamondbacks was once seemingly on cruise control. Now, the path is filled with potholes, fallen debris and a dangerous curve ahead.
Perhaps the biggest word now is, uncertainty.
Once, a 13-game winning streak seemed to seal the deal. Since that streak was snapped, the Diamondbacks have lost four of five, and their closest competition for the top NL Wild Card spot, the Colorado Rockies, have now won six in a row and eight of the last nine games.
By virtue of their 4-2 victory over the Diamondbacks before 27,526 Tuesday night at Chase Field, the Rockies have climbed within three games of Arizona for the top Wild Card spot. The teams still have two games left in their current four-game set.
What’s equally disturbing is these losses have all occurred at home. Earlier this season, Chase Field was a dominion of invincibility for the Diamondbacks, and it seems to have diminished its grip on opponents.
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Over the first two games of this series, the Arizona bullpen has been unreliable.
On Monday night, Jake Barrett surrendered a two-run homer to Nolan Arenado and that turned into the game winner. During Tuesday night’s game, David Hernandez slopped a 2-1 hanging curve to Carlos Gonzalez, and the former undrafted international free agent of the Diamondbacks, deposited the mistake over the right field fence for the decisive blow.
Afterward, manager Torey Lovullo commented on the pulse of his club.
"“Look, we’re both fighting for the same turf, and this is what we have been playing for in spring training and during the season,” he said. “No, I’m not caught up in this Wild Card thing. I only focus on today. I can’t recall the games of the past, and only remember the good things.”"
A once ebullient clubhouse, teeming with laughter, blaring music and players congregating in clusters, has disappeared. A quiet feeling has enveloped, and players now disappear in droves after the recent games.
The open culture which Lovullo worked hard to create is still present, but a quiet, eerie feeling now supersedes. All of which can be disconcerting at this critical part of the season.
To their credit, the players remain dedicated to the task at hand. That’s the consensus echoed by outfielder J.D. Martinez, who told Call to the Pen that preparation remains the only factor within their grasp.
"“We’ll come in here (Wednesday), prepare the same way and get ready for (Colorado starter German) Marquez,” he said after belting his 22nd homer for the Diamondbacks, and 38th overall. “We know we play the game the right way, and I don’t how each game will turn out. I only know that if we execute the way we are capable, things will turn out okay.”"
In the trainer’s room
Right-hander Randall Delgado, whom manager Torey Lovullo praises for his versatility, could undergo Tommy John surgery.
With the most recent diagnosis as a flexor strain, the pictures of his right elbow were read by Dr. James Andrews, the renown sports surgeon. In consolation with Dr Gary Waslewski, the Diamondbacks team physician, and Dr. Andrews, Lovullo awaits the collective conclusion of the two physicians.
The likely scenario is Tommy John surgery. If that happens, Delgado will miss the 2018 season. By the time he returns the following spring, Delgado will be 29-years-old, and have missed the better part of two seasons.
Before Tuesday’s home game with the Rockies, Luvullo told Call to the Pen that Delgado’s injury was suspected, and his absence leaves a void in the bullpen.
"“Dr. Andrews did read Randall’s pictures, and confirmed the flexor strain,” he said. “Randall does many things well for us, including starting and gives us several extended innings. This is a big loss for us.”"
Next
The series with Colorado reaches the half-point Wednesday night. Look for lefty Patrick Corbin (13-12, 4.16 ERA) to oppose German Marquez (10-6, 4.27). In the finale Thursday afternoon, it’s Zack Godley (7-7, 3.18) taking on Chad Bettis (1-2, 4.98).
Next: Rangers re-enter Wild Card race
The Diamondbacks then embark on a six-game road trip. That includes three with the Giants at AT&T Park, and three with the Padres at Petco Park.