The Snakepit Staff

Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via The D-backs went 3-3 this week. But there was definitely room for improvement in some categories... How big a concern are the team’s struggles with runners in scoring position? Makakilo: In summary, it’s a concern because the Diamondbacks are getting a lot of PAs with RISP, but are only increasing their expected runs scored by an average amount. Because it’s a lot of PAs, improved results with RISP would be awesome. Observations follow: Through 26 May they had the third most PAs with RISP (542) in the Majors. ...

Photo by Joe Sargent/ In which we discuss, the Zacpocalypse, the lead-off spot and - inevitably - the bullpen... How much of a shock was Zac Gallen’s Friday Night Fright? Justin: Well, the Zachocalypse was certainly shocking for those watching, but there were those that foresaw this. People had been saying “Gallen didnt have his best stuff and…” for a few starts. Looks like it caught up to him. Incidentally, I was not aware of that when I wrote the preview. Spencer: He should be sent down when Davies comes back! Am I doing the 2023 D’Backs fan thingy right?...

Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports Dominic Fletcher came out of nowhere, the bullpen went on fire and Brandon Pfaadt bounced back. What do we think of Dominic Fletcher? Spencer: Right now he’s awesome! I expect regression to come, but even then he’s still fighting for time alongside Thomas and McCarthy. An excellent situation to have if they can all motivate each other. But I do suspect one of those three and Canzone/Barrosa/Patino becomes trade bait in July for a controllable piece. Packaged with a SP prospect we could get a significant piece back. On their own, it’s...

Photo by JUSTIN NAMUR/BELGA/AFP via We will not be discussing the elephant in the room this week. Admittedly, that is because this week’s set of questions were set out on Saturday afternoon, before first Andrew Chafin and then Miguel Castro, coughed up ninth inning leads in spectacular fashion. While we did talk about the closer’s role, I’m fairly sure it will be a greater topic for next weekend... And, moving RAPIDLY on... The Brandon Pfaadt era didn’t quite start as hoped. Are you worried? James: Not yet, not even a little. I don’t expect him to dominate...

Photo by Jens Büttner/picture alliance via The first month is in the books. How has it gone? Another week in first, as the schedule softens. Thoughts at the end of the first month? Justin: I would say better than expected easily. Just looked at who we face in May, really only 3 games against Pittsburgh (!!!) will be against a tough team right now. Makakilo: The Diamondbacks continuing in first place in the NL West is a source of joy and good feelings. The Diamondbacks are exceeding my optimistic expectations. That’s more than OK - success feels much better...