While it’s still very early in the 2023 season, there is one team in particular that has been a pleasant surprise.
The Arizona Diamondbacks made some key moves in the offseason to strengthen their roster and take a few steps closer to contention.
However, they appear to be a little bit ahead of schedule.
They are 10-7 and lead the National League West by two games over the Los Angeles Dodgers, who won the division last season.
Their early success has impressed many around the game.
On MLB Network, Mark DeRosa broke down the team and discussed what has been working for them so far in 2023.
The @Dbacks sit atop the NL West standings!@markdero7 takes us to “Lovullo’s Gelato Shop” to break down Arizona’s exciting roster 🍦 pic.twitter.com/0wijIjFdPl
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) April 18, 2023
DeRosa’s segment was quite fun as broke down the team’s success in an interesting way, taking fans through manager Torey Lovullo‘s “gelato shop,” and discussed all the different “flavors.”
The former MLB star talked about how Josh Rojas has been the perfect catalyst for the team offensively, but also mentioned all the other pieces that have helped make the D’Backs such a dangerous team.
Merrill Kelly has been a key piece on the pitching staff.
The right-hander received the “mocha” designation from DeRosa, who discussed his dominance over the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday.
Kelly went six innings and allowed one run.
DeRosa then talked about the team’s offense.
Christian Walker has hit 38 home runs since the start of the 2022 season, while top prospect Corbin Carroll is hitting for a .368 batting average, has stolen six bases and is leading the team with four home runs.
Arizona also has Zac Gallen to lead their rotation and a young star in Pavin Smith, who hit his first career grand slam in St. Louis on Monday.
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Diamondbacks Manager Comments On Becoming Dominant
