MLB: Key to success for all 30 teams heading into 2015
By Robby Sabo
Arizona Diamondbacks
- 2014 Finish: 64-98, 5th in NL West
- 2015 Key to Success: Ride the Cuban wave
The disappointing Arizona Diamondbacks of 2014 decided to make a splash in the offseason.
A trendy splash, in fact, that goes along with the bursting enthusiasm of most general managers – the signing of a Cuban sensation.
Top Cuban players in MLB:
- CHW, Jose Abreu
- LAD, Yasiel Puig
- DET, Yoenis Cespedes
- CIN, Aroldis Chapman
- MIA, Jose Fernandez
The D-Backs signed third baseman Yasmany Tomas to a six-year, $68.5 million mega contract his offseason. The hope is that the right-handed power bat will be coupled with Paul Goldschmidt to create a dangerous duo in the middle of the lineup for years to come.
Arizona better hope Tomas displays the power Cuba was so accustomed to, because aside from that potentially dangerous duo the team has very little else.
Their starting pitchers are below average at best. Josh Collmenter is slated to to be the top guy. This is somebody who pitched to only a 3.46 ERA and 11 wins in 2014.
The bullpen could have some legs if Addison Reed takes the next step, but holes around the diamond are plentiful.
For Arizona to surprise, Tomas, Goldschmidt and perhaps Mark Trumbo, will need to power their way through.
Next: Colorado Rockies