MLB All-Star Selection Sunday is here for the Arizona Diamondbacks
Jul 8, 2018, 1:25 PM | Updated: 1:33 pm
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
PHOENIX – Despite having a turbulent first half of the season, the Arizona Diamondbacks have overcome injuries, slumps and a disastrous May to still maintain a one-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers for first place in the National League West.
They have done this as a team, which could make recognition for individuals in Sunday’s All-Star selection difficult.
So who from this first place team could end up in Washington, D.C.?
The obvious standout so far has been perennial All-Star Paul Goldschmidt. The first baseman recorded his twentieth home run of the season in Saturday’s big win against the San Diego Padres, which gives him six consecutive seasons of 20 or more home runs and ties him with Luis Gonzalez for the club record.
Before Sunday’s game, manager Torey Lovullo commented on who he could see being selected.
“I think there’s one obvious choice in Paul,” said Lovullo.
“He’s had a tremendous month of June, and you look at his overall numbers and you don’t even know that May was subpar. He’s obviously everyone’s clear cut choice.”
Since June 1, Goldy has been outstanding. He has slashed .376/.471/.752 in 133 at bats with 13 home runs, nine doubles, one triple, 32 RBI, 22 walks, and 29 runs scored.
In that span, he ranks first in average, on-base percentage, slugging, OPS, extra base hits, and is tied for first in home runs.
Another possible choice for the All-Star squad is Patrick Corbin. Even though it hasn’t reflected lately in the win column, Corbin has been lights out this season.
He has a 0.95 ERA over 19 innings pitched in his last three starts, with an opponent batting average of .191. Since June 22, he has 23 strikeouts and three walks.
Zack Greinke, who is making his 400th career start on Sunday, is another former All-Star who could be selected.
Greinke has won each of his last four starts and has posted a 1.73 ERA in 26.0 innings pitched. He is 6-1 since the start of June with a 2.93 ERA, 40 strikeouts, and 10 walks in 43.0 innings pitched.
Other potential dark horse selections include outfielder David Peralta, who matched a D-backs’ record for hits by going 5-for-6 in Saturday’s game.
Relief pitcher Yoshi Hirano also has a compelling case, as he posted a franchise record 26-game scoreless streak this season.
“You want to see as many of your guys make that team,” said Lovullo. “We’re a first place team, so hopefully the league recognizes that.”
Announcements will be made during the 2018 MLB All-Star Selection Special on ESPN Sunday at 4 p.m.
