Move over Dodgers and Padres, it's time for the Arizona Diamondbacks to take the reins of the NL West.
Yes, I'm not kidding, those same Diamondbacks who haven't won the division since 2011.
Those same Diamondbacks who on opening day had among some of the worst odds to win the World Series.
Well, now almost midway through the season, they stand as one of the best teams in baseball at 41-26.
And the odds have reflected that, shifting to +3000.
It's hard for us not to wonder: Can this actually be the Diamondbacks year?
Is this early run sustainable?
Yes, the Arizona Diamondbacks are for real. And here's why.
2 reasons the Arizona Diamondbacks can win the World Series this year
1. Pitchers rule the playoffs.
The pitching tandem of Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly has proven to be lethal this season. The two aces have combined for 15 wins with around a 3.00 era thus far.
As the season continues, the development of the bullpen will be huge. With time, that should come.
Let's not forget how important pitching is in the playoffs.
2. This team can hit. And I mean hit.
No, the Diamondbacks aren't a home run hitting team, but they happen to be something more important: one of the best all-around offensive teams in the sport. Five different starters hit at least .280. And, Rookie outfielder Corbin Carroll has lived up to the hype and then some.
I know, I know, it's early in the season. But you can't make this stuff up.
They own the third-best batting average and strike out the third least in MLB.
You know what that means?
It means the Diamondbacks have variation and consistency. That's dangerous.
But what should we expect going forward?
Big things are ahead for this organization. And yes, a World Series bid is possible this season. Don't be surprised if the seats are sold out come October.
