Diamondbacks: Battle for fifth rotation spot rages on

Though a bit of a weakness in 2015, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ starting rotation figures to be a strength in 2016.

Leading the way is Zack Greinke, who assumes the role of “ace” after signing a six-year contract worth more than $206 million in the offseason. Following him will be 2015 NL All-Star Shelby Miller, 2013 NL All-Star Patrick Corbin and Rubby De La Rosa, who led the D-backs in wins, innings pitched and strikeouts last year.

The only question remaining is about who will slide into the fifth spot in the rotation, and a spring training battle is being waged by four candidates.

Here’s a look at how each of them are doing.

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Archie Bradley

Who?

The team’s fifth starter to begin last season, Bradley got off to a great start with wins in his first three starts to go along with an ERA of 1.45. However, a line drive to the face sent him to the disabled list, and upon his return the right-hander was not the same player.

Spring: 2-1 (2 GS), 9.00 ERA, 10 IP, 15 H, 5 BB, 9 K

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Zack Godley

Who?

An unheralded prospect, Godley found his way into the rotation in July and, without great stuff, managed to produce. He started six games for the D-backs and appeared in three more as a reliever, posting a 5-1 record with a 3.19 ERA.

Spring: 0-0 (2 GS), 11.88 ERA, 8.1 IP, 14 H, 3 BB, 8 K

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Robbie Ray

Who?

Ray started 23 games for the D-backs last season and was a victim of poor run support more than his own failures. The left-hander earned just five wins in 23 starts, though his 3.52 ERA was pretty solid.

Spring: 1-0 (3 GS), 1.86 ERA, 9.2 IP, 7 H, 3 BB, 9 K

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Tyler Wagner

Who?

Acquired in the trade that also brought Jean Segura to the D-backs, the 25-year-old right-hander started three games for the Milwaukee Brewers last season, going 0-2 with a 7.24 ERA. In 25 starts for Double-A Biloxi, however, he was 11-5 with a 2.66 ERA.

Spring: 3-0 (3 starts), 4.50 ERA, 10.0 IP, 11 H, 3 BB, 6 K

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