2006 Arizona Diamondbacks Preview
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2006 Arizona Diamondbacks Preview
Overview
After a challenging 111-loss season in 2004, the Arizona Diamondbacks showed marked improvement in 2005, finishing with a 77-85 record. This upswing included an impressive 8-2 in their final 10 games. Key contributions came from first baseman Tony Clark (.304, 30 HR, 87 RBI) and Chad Tracy (.308, 27 HR, 72 RBI). Additionally, Troy Glaus (.258, 37 HR, 97 RBI), Luis Gonzalez (.271, 24 HR, 79 RBI), and outfielder Shawn Green (.286, 22 HR, 73 RBI) strengthened the offense.
The team's starting pitchers were inconsistent, with Brandon Webb (14-12, 3.54 ERA), Javier Vazquez (11-15, 4.42 ERA), and Brad Halsey (8-12, 4.61 ERA) carrying most of the load. The bullpen saw Brandon Medders (4-1, 1.78 ERA), Lance Cormier (7-3, 5.11 ERA), Brandon Lyon (0-2, 6.44 ERA, 14 saves), Brian Bruney (1-3, 7.43 ERA, 12 saves), and José Valverde (3-4, 2.44 ERA, 15 saves) combining for 41 saves.
Off-Season Moves
In a bid to strengthen the team, Arizona traded Javier Vazquez to the White Sox in exchange for Orlando Hernandez (9-9, 5.12 ERA) and sent Troy Glaus to the Blue Jays for closer Miguel Batista (5-8, 4.10 ERA, 31 saves) and Gold Glove second baseman Orlando Hudson (.271, 10 HR, 63 RBI). Catcher Johnny Estrada (.261, 4 HR, 39 RBI) was also acquired from the Atlanta Braves. Additionally, free agent center fielder Eric Byrnes (.226, 10 HR, 40 RBI) was signed to bolster the lineup.
2006 Analysis
The Diamondbacks aimed to solidify their bullpen by trading Glaus for Batista, offering more reliability as a closer. While Glaus's offensive presence will be missed, young talents like Chad Tracy and first baseman Conor Jackson are expected to step up.
Arizona made a smart move by extending Brandon Webb's contract for four more years, ensuring stability with their ace pitcher, who led the team in both ERA (3.54) and wins (14) in 2005. The addition of Orlando Hernandez is expected to provide innings but not necessarily wins. Though Eric Byrnes is a good pick-up, the team's offense remains strong, and players like Luis Gonzalez and Shawn Green are projected to maintain their performance levels even without Glaus.
The pressing issue for the Diamondbacks remains their pitching staff. With little improvement to their starting rotation, the team's chances in the NL West seem limited. Significant upgrades will be needed for them to emerge as serious contenders.
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