Young core has D-backs looking forward to next season

Despite the first round exit in the playoffs, the Diamondbacks at least showed they belonged there. The young core of players played the underdog role and surprised the entire league this season.

That’s probably why they are excited to get back at it next season.

“When we show up next year we’ll be ready to go,” said rookie first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. “You wish this year could have continued on a little longer but it is what it is.”

Many picked this team to finish last in their division, but after being led by a young group of players, expect them to be the among the favorites to win the NL West.

“I think we have a great group of guys,” said pitcher Josh Collmenter. “I think we have a good core group of guys this year, it was a lot of fun to be around and hopefully next year we can build that same thing.”

Players are using this season as a building block.

“We’re going to be one year older and one year better and hopefully we can take the next step next year,” said pitcher David Hernandez.

You get a sense of excitement from the players when they talk about the future.

“This was a great season and this was a great run for these guys,” said second baseman Aaron Hill. “We’ll learn from it and hopefully finish it out next year.”

The Diamondbacks won’t be much of a surprise to anyone next season, but you can count on the same attitude and work ethic from manager Kirk Gibson’s players.

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