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FanGraphs | Jay Jaffe: The Diamondbacks had a stretch where they lost 17 of 22, which effectively eliminated them from postseason contention. Having a difficult schedule was part of it, no doubt, but the bullpen and offense totally imploded. For a team losing Patrick Corbin this year and Paul Goldschmidt the next, the clock is ticking.
The Athletic | Eno Sarris ($): There are only two players who elite speed, barrel, and arm Statcast metrics: Ramón Laureano, and Tyler O’Neill. That’s what you would normally call a “good” player, so they’re probably safe bets down the line to be just as good.
ESPN Insider | Doug Mittler ($): Starters make the difference so often in October, but sometimes even more so when out of the bullpen (who could forget Madison Bumgarner?). That’s why Lance McCullers Jr., Brandon Morrow, and Steven Wright could play critical roles in the weeks ahead.