On This Date In D-Backs History: September 26

Craig Counsell, seen here with Brewers (ironically) in 2011, was a key member of the Diamondbacks’ 2001 World Series team. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It was September 26, 2001. In just their fourth year of existence, the Arizona Diamondbacks were in first place in the National League West and were headed to the postseason. What started out as an average game between the D-Backs and Milwaukee Brewers ended up making history. Arizona, who was still playing at Bank One Ballpark at the time, used 22 players while the Brewers used 20 players, combining to use 42 throughout the night and setting a Diamondback single-game record. The D-Backs won the high-scoring affair, 15-9.

The Snakes improved to 85-67 on the year and finished 92-70, edging out the San Francisco Giants for the division title. They eventually went on to win the 2001 World Series, dramatically beating the Mighty New York Yankees in seven games. The D-Backs became the fastest expansion team to ever win the World Series.

Fast-forward twelve years, and it seems as though the Diamondbacks have done a 360. They sit at 80-78 on the season, fighting to stay above .500. They have already been eliminated from playoff contention, and got pounded by the Padres 12-2 in their most recent game on Wednesday night. After many big trades, it does not seem like the master plan of general manager Kevin Towers is working out.