The Diamondbacks are in first place largely because of the way both Ian Kennedy and Daniel Hudson have pitched this season.

Kennedy, of course, leads the NL with 17 wins, while Hudson has picked up 14 victories of his own. Both have been dominant at times, and Arizona Sports 620’s Ron Wolfley feels much of Hudson’s success can be attributed to his teammate.

“I believe Ian Kennedy is probably the best thing that ever happened to Daniel Hudson,” he said.

Wolfley thinks Hudson may have better stuff than his teammate, but wasn’t mentally ready to lead the pitching staff.

“This is his first full season, and the fact that Ian Kennedy is having the year that he’s having right now not only kind of pokes and prods at Daniel Hudson, but it also offers a little comfort, a little aide and shelter because Daniel Hudson doesn’t have to be “the guy,” doesn’t have to be “the ace” right now,” he said.

It would appear Kennedy’s presence has helped Hudson step up his game, something we’ve seen play out with the D-backs once before. Back in 2001 it was common knowledge that Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling were constantly trying to outdo each other, and all it did was benefit the team as each put together a Cy Young-worthy season (Johnson won the award).

While nobody should be comparing the current duo to that one, a similar scenario could be taking shape in the desert once again.

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