Arizona Diamondbacks surprise skeptics with impressive season start

We’re shocked — but in addition thrilled — to report that after the primary 13 video games of the season, the Diamondbacks are main the Nationwide League West division with an 8-5 document.

Flashback: The D-backs are anticipated to enhance from their previous few lackluster years, however the pundits did not have excessive hopes for a postseason run.

State of play: Specialists be damned. The D-backs held their very own in opposition to the L.A. Dodgers and San Diego Padres, the presumed NL West favorites, and the Milwaukee Brewers, the first-place group within the NL Central.

• The Snakes went 2-2 of their opening sequence in L.A., then got here again to the Valley and beat the Dodgers 3 times, solely dropping as soon as.
• Arizona tied their sequence in opposition to the Padres.

Actuality test: There’s a whole lot of season left — 149 video games, to be actual. It is hardly time to begin celebrating.

Sure, however: A robust begin is perhaps simply the boldness enhance the D-backs want.

The most recent: Supervisor Torey Lovullo acquired ejected from Wednesday afternoon’s recreation in opposition to the Brewers after arguing over balls and strikes with residence plate umpire Gabe Morales.

• Lovullo advised reporters he knew he’d get tossed however felt compelled to talk up about what he noticed as inconsistent calls in opposition to pitcher Drey Jameson.
• His vitality appeared to encourage the group, which went on to win 7-3, taking two of three from Milwaukee.

What they’re saying: “I feel that’s massive as a supervisor when he sees me on the market preventing and I’m not getting calls,” Jameson advised The Arizona Republic.

• He mentioned he went to Lovullo’s workplace after the sport and thanked him for “having my again.”

Between the strains: Jameson’s efficiency Wednesday earned him a spot on our record of early-season standouts. Listed here are the opposite gamers we’re watching:

• Zac Gallen, the ace of the pitching employees, tossed seven scoreless innings earlier this week, putting out 11 batters.
• Outfielder Corbin Carroll, a possible Rookie of the 12 months contender, has stolen 5 bases to this point and appears to be rising into his new group with each recreation.

1 enjoyable factor: Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant wore a Carroll jersey to Monday night time’s recreation — which left Carroll somewhat starstruck.

What’s subsequent: The D-backs are in Miami this weekend, kicking off their sequence in opposition to the Marlins at 3:40 Friday afternoon.

Go deeper: How Bally Sports activities’ chapter will impression Arizona Diamondbacks followers