Can Zack Godley Emulate Robbie Ray?

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It’s been a cup of coffee for Zack Godley in the majors, but so far there hasn’t been a sweeter tasting treat. Godley was largely an unknown right hander that was pitching in Visalia. At the age of 25, Single-A isn’t the most promising place to be. However, Godley has performed admirably in his short time in Arizona. He’s been given an opportunity and now Chip Hale has to make room for the former Tennessee Volunteer.

Another man that pitched too well to sent back down to the minors was Robbie Ray. Initially a temporary replacement for Archie Bradley in the rotation, Ray came in with a golden opportunity to stick out. The pitching rotation at the time was (and still is) wildly inconsistent. By the end of June, Ray’s ERA was still under 2.00. After the All Star break, Ray was the first pitcher to start, further solidifying his role with the club.

The 23-year old Ray was acquired last winter from the Tigers in a 3-way trade that also included Didi Gregorius going to the New York Yankees. Godley was also acquired last winter from Chicago in the Miguel Montero trade. If anything, the Arizona scouts have to be commended for finding these low key pieces.

Jul 22, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Robbie Ray in the first inning against the Miami Marlins at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Godley is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA and 11 strikeouts in his two major league starts. He’s surrendered only 3 runs in 12 innings. While the test run has been good, Godley is in for a test tomorrow afternoon. He’ll start off the series against the NL East-leading Washington Nationals. Washington has already derailed Josh Collmenter‘s starting pitcher aspirations. Tomorrow, they’ll aim to derail Godley’s.

With Chase Anderson ready to come off of the DL, judgement day for Godley is fast approaching. If he can provide another quality start performance, Godley could find himself in at least a long relief role in the Arizona bullpen. He’ll join Robbie Ray as minor leagues that were able to grab the brass ring. However, if he gets blasted, he’ll return to the minors to join Allen Webster and get back in line for promotion.

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