2023 Diamondbacks: Who’s hot and who’s not? (4.0)

Is it fair to say the Diamondbacks are on fire?  I think so…

Arizona has won 8 of its last 10 games and with a 28-20 record, they sit well above .500.  Over the last 15 days, the D-backs have boasted a top-10 offense and a top-10 ERA.  They have won 3 in a row and look to make it 4 in a row tonight against the Phillies.

When you are winning at the rate Arizona is, it takes a whole village to string together victories.  Some nights the bats are hot, some nights the pitching is lights out, and some nights a few defensive gems save the day.  This has been the case for the surging Diamondbacks.

Let’s take a look at who has been hot, and who has been ice-cold recently for this exciting young group.

Diamondbacks players that are hot 🔥

Just before spring training began, I ordered my Corbin Carroll jersey impatiently anticipating what this kid could do in 2023; he has not disappointed one bit.

Carroll has been consistent all year, but recently he has been rolling.  Over his last 5 games, Carroll has an OBP of .409 and an OPS of .997.  In the past week, he has homered twice, knocked in 4 runs, stole 3 bags, and drawn 4 free passes.  (Side note: In the last 15 days, Carroll leads the team in walk and strikeout percentage)

The rookie continues to impress, and he is showing no signs of slowing down (pun intended).

Correct me if I am wrong, but Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has surprisingly been the leader of this offense all season.  He has had countless amounts of clutch hits, and quality at-bats seemingly.

Let the drum beat on for Gurriel Jr.  Over his last 5 games, he is 8-21 (.381) with an OPS of 1.000.  Even more impressive is that over his last 12 games, he has hit 3 HRs, 6 doubles, 8 RBIs, and has recorded an OPS of 1.049.

Expect more from Gurriel Jr. tonight.  The D-backs will face a lefty in Matt Strahm.  In 52 at-bats vs lefties this season Lourdes has gotten on base 42% of the time…

Diamondbacks player that is not hot 🥶

What a rollercoaster ride it has been for outfielder Pavin Smith.  When he was called up from Reno in early April he showed us his best Barry Bonds impersonation.  Now, Smith couldn’t hit water if he fell out of a boat.

It’s been rough for Pavin.  In his last 12 games, Smith is 8-41 (.195) with 10 strikeouts and an OPS under .600.  Overall on the season his numbers are just fine, but in the month of May, it’s been a struggle. 

Looking at the positives, he has 2 homers, and 4 RBIs, in his last 3 games.  Maybe the slump is coming to an end for the Jupiter native…