PHOENIX — With the Arizona Diamondbacks struggling early in the season, manager Torey Lovullo has found solace in advice from a trusted source—his 92-year-old mother, Grace Lovullo. She encouraged him to put aside analytics and rely on intuition, a sentiment Lovullo appreciates given his history of managing by instinct.
Despite entering the season with high hopes, the Diamondbacks have stumbled, losing eight of their last nine games, including a 9-7 defeat against the Washington Nationals. This rough patch has left them with a 27-30 record, despite having the highest payroll in franchise history. Lovullo, the team’s longest-serving manager, who guided them to the World Series not long ago, is eager to see his players deliver in crucial moments.
In their recent matchup with the Nationals, defensive mistakes cost Arizona dearly. Ketel Marte’s error in the first inning allowed Washington to score, and several other miscues throughout the game, including poor baserunning and mishandling of routine plays, contributed to the loss. These errors have become a pattern, and Lovullo expressed his frustration, acknowledging the team’s inadequate execution during pivotal moments.
A glaring issue for the Diamondbacks has been their bullpen’s inefficiency, evidenced by a collective 5.49 ERA, one of the highest in MLB. Relievers have let multiple leads slip away, with the latest disappointment coming against the Pittsburgh Pirates, where Arizona squandered a 6-0 lead, ultimately losing 9-6. In an attempt to find consistency, Lovullo has made roster adjustments, including moving pitcher Kevin Ginkel down to Triple-A.
Defensive lapses have been another critical concern, with 29 errors so far this season. These errors, combined with other less noticeable defensive failures, have played a significant role in Arizona’s struggles, especially in tightly contested games. Arizona’s performance in one-run and extra-inning games has been subpar, prompting Lovullo to emphasize the need for defensive improvements.
There are reasons to remain optimistic. The lineup boasts strong performers like outfielder Corbin Carroll, and the infield duo of Ketel Marte and Geraldo Perdomo. Perdomo, in particular, has been a pleasant surprise, providing offensive firepower that includes tying his career-high in home runs. Lovullo recently promoted him in the batting order as recognition of his performance.
On the pitching side, Ace right-hander Corbin Burnes is living up to his lucrative offseason contract, maintaining a solid 2.72 ERA. Pitchers Merrill Kelly, Brandon Pfaadt, and Ryne Nelson have also contributed effectively. Lovullo remains confident in the team’s ability to turn their fortunes around swiftly.
Despite their struggles, the Diamondbacks remain in striking distance within the competitive NL West division, lagging only seven games behind leaders such as the Dodgers, Padres, and Giants. With a significant portion of the season remaining, players remain composed, drawing confidence from previous seasons where they have bounced back from similar slumps.
Pavin Smith, the designated hitter, echoed the team’s resolve, noting that while no team hopes for such a rough stretch, past comebacks offer reassurance. The players have faith in their capacity to overcome the current challenges, staying focused as they work to turn their season around in the coming months.