Arizona Diamondbacks: Four Takeaways from Giants finale

By Joseph Jacquez

Apr 7, 2017

Apr 6, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Jake Lamb (22) celebrates with David Peralta (6) and Paul Goldschmidt (44) after hitting a three run homerun against the San Francisco Giants in the sixth inning at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports /

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A.J. Pollock (Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports) /

Difference maker

A.J. Pollock started last season on the D.L. and did not play in many games. Many thought the Diamondbacks season was over and Pollock’s absence ended up making a huge difference.

This week’s games provided further evidence. The Diamondbacks scored 27 runs against the Giants, the most to this point of the season in franchise history. They hit .394 with runners in scoring position, the best mark in the National League.

Pollock is right in the middle of everything. He leads the majors with eight hits, and that total is tied for the second most in team history through the first four games. Pollock’s presence at the top of the order and in center field is unmatched. His value is comparable to Goldschmidt’s.

Pollock leading offsets the table for the two through four hitters who did damage on Thursday. It is safe assumption that health is essential.