D-backs’ offense is looking ready for the regular season

MESA, Ariz. – After a week-long stretch of being stuck in first gear, the Arizona Diamondbacks’ offense appears to be firing on all cylinders following an 8-1 win against the Chicago Cubs at Sloan Park on Sunday.

“Offensively, it was a good day,” said manager Torey Lovullo after the game. “We did a lot of little things. We advanced runners, we hit with men in scoring position. Then on top of that, we got some outstanding pitching.”

Sunday’s game marked the fifth in a row the D-backs were able to put up at least six runs on the scoreboard.

“We felt like this was coming,” said Lovullo. “It was a matter of time before our guys could size things up and put good swings on the ball.”

Jake Lamb has been a big part of the production as of late. After going 3-for-3 with a home run on Saturday, Lamb homered for the second consecutive game on Sunday.

His home run on Sunday came off Cubs’ closer Craig Kimbrel.

Lamb is now 5-for-6 with two home runs, seven RBIs and a walk in his last two starts.

“I feel really good at the plate,” said Lamb. “I feel under control. I’m getting my foot down.”

He’s missed a considerable amount of time over the last two seasons due to injury, only playing in 134 games.

Lamb is crediting his offensive output to being in good physical condition, along with the work he did in the offseason.

“I worked my ass off all offseason just to get my swing right, get in the right place,” said Lamb. “I’ve made a few adjustments in spring … the last couple of days it’s been really slow at the plate just as far as my tempo.”

Lovullo said there is a tempo and rhythm to Lamb’s swing, and that he is gaining confidence by the day.

“He’s just in baseball mode right now,” said Lovullo. “Once he gets into that mindset he’s a pretty special player.”

EXTRA BASES

Newly acquired catcher Stephen Vogt also had a nice day at the dish as well. Vogt went 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles and two runs scored.

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