That’s right folks, the most prolific sports blog series is back for another season. Last season’s breakdowns were cut short to the Minnesota Twins more than a year ago due to the pandemic hitting, but I am back to give my predictions on the 2021 season. I am starting a little late, but fuck it, lets get into this thing. You may have also noticed that the team at Bro Takes have hired a new graphics department, and now have some cool graphics to go along with the blog. Lets get into this motherfucker. Also a PS, I have no idea what the playoff format is this year so I will continue doing these blogs as if the 2019 playoff format is happening.
Key Acquisitions and Losses:
RHP Joakim Soria signed a 1 year $3.5 million contract
The best move by the Diamondbacks this offseason was signing 36-year-old relief pitcher Joakim Soria. Soria had his best season since 2015 last year with Oakland, posting a 2.82 ERA in 22.1 innings pitched. There’s no telling what the aging veteran will do in a full-length season this year, but I like the pickup regardless for Arizona.
RHP Tyler Clippard signed a 1 year $2.25 million contract
Another good pickup from Arizona as they add more bullpen depth in another aging veteran. Clippard also prospered in the shortened season as he had a 2.77 ERA in 26.0 innings pitched, his best season since 2014.
2B/3B Asdrubal Cabrera signed a 1 year $1.75 million contract
Another veteran signing by Arizona as they add a player who can pretty much play any position in the infield. Cabrera will most likely serve as a platoon player as every position in the infield is locked up and there is most likely going to be no DH in the National League this season.
Projected Lineup:
C: Carson Kelly
1B: Christian Walker
2B: Josh Rojas
3B: Eduardo Escobar
SS: Nick Ahmed
LF: David Peralta
CF: Ketel Marte
RF: Kole Calhoun
Projected Rotation:
1. Zac Gallen
2. Madison Bumgarner
3. Caleb Smith
4. Luke Weaver
5. Merrill Kelly
Offseason Grade: C
2021 Prediction:
The Diamondback have some talented players on their team. The outfield combo of Ketel Marte and David Peralta has the potential to do great things in 2021, with both having +.300, +20, +75 seasons. They also have a good young combo of starting pitchers with Zac Gallen and Caleb Smith, followed by Madison Bumgarner, but I expect similar results from last season. Outside those five players, the Diamondbacks do not have all the pieces to contend in this top-heavy NL West. I have them falling 4th in the NL West. Not the worst team, but they will have around 70-75 wins this season.
SmallDog Sports 