Snake pit:
In 2017, the Diamondbacks finished at 93-69: 53-36 for the first half and 40-33 after the mid-season break. They were fourth in NL runs scored with 812 and second in NL pitching: a 3.66 ERA overall, a 3.61 ERA for starters and a 3.78 ERA for relievers.
Due to free agency and a trade over the winter, the D-backs have replaced their receiver and an outfielder. However, their offense is less potent than their stretch run with J.D. Martinez, but similar overall numbers are in the offing.
According to Fangraphs, Arizona has a 25.6 percent chance for postseason play and a 19.6 percent shot at the wild card. And if they’re healthy, these forecasts are reasonable.
But Zack Greinke is experiencing a drop in velocity from 91-93 mph on his four-seam fastball to 88-90 mph. And though he has a full arsenal, he’ll be less effective with that 3-mph drop. That stated, he’s 34, and Doc Halladay was 34 when he lost something off his heater.
With Greinke’s contract, adding another top-tier arm isn’t an option. So, if the right-hander struggles, their other starters can only do so much. But not enough.
Regarding comments on a D-backs site, the results are still there for Greinke. But Tim Lincecum lived off his fastball reputation for half a season before the hitters caught up to him. The Diamondbacks fan base doesn’t want to explore life without their ace.
"FOOD FOR THOUGHT: “It’s human nature to start taking things for granted again when danger isn’t banging loudly on the door.” – David Hackworth"