The Los Angeles Dodgers mounted a stunning comeback against the Arizona Diamondbacks, capped by a monumental three-run homer from Shohei Ohtani in the ninth inning, leading to a 6-3 victory. Despite a strong performance from Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte, who hit two home runs, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who contributed a grand slam, the game turned on the struggles of Arizona's bullpen. Manager Torey Lovullo faced mounting criticism following the game, reminiscent of last season's late collapse that cost the team a playoff spot. Reliever Kevin Ginkel allowed five runs, raising his ERA to a staggering 15.43.

The Diamondbacks now find themselves at 20-19, while the Dodgers improve to 30-16 since 2022, continuing their dominance in the matchup. With the D'backs' potent lineup unable to secure a win, questions about the efficacy of managerial decisions loom large as they strive to maintain competitiveness in the division.

The Arizona Diamondbacks face a challenging juncture in their season as they deal with significant injuries to key players. With Jordan Montgomery sidelined for the year due to Tommy John surgery and Ketel Marte and AJ Puk on the injured list, the team suffered another setback when closer Justin Martinez was placed on the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation. Despite a promising start to the season, Martinez's velocity dropped, raising concerns about his health. Manager Torey Lovullo remains optimistic about Martinez's recovery and the possibility of utilizing their capable bullpen in the meantime.

As the team looks to fill the closer role, Lovullo mentioned Shelby Miller, Kevin Ginkel, and Ryan Thompson as potential candidates. Miller, with a strong season thus far, boasts impressive stats, not allowing a run in 12.2 innings pitched. His ability to execute pitches at critical moments positions him as a strong candidate for high-leverage situations. Meanwhile, Ginkel's recent return from injury adds depth to the bullpen, as he previously saved five games last season. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how the Diamondbacks navigate their bullpen strategy.

The Arizona Diamondbacks suffered a setback as right-handed reliever Kevin Ginkel is expected to begin the 2025 season on the injured list due to right shoulder inflammation. Manager Torey Lovullo noted that Ginkel's injury occurred in recent days, but he remains hopeful for a quick recovery. His absence will pave the way for Shelby Miller and Bryce Jarvis to secure spots on the Opening Day roster. Ginkel was a strong candidate for the closer role after an impressive spring training, where he recorded a 1.50 ERA over seven appearances.

Lovullo expressed confidence in Ginkel's work ethic, emphasizing the importance of his presence in the bullpen. This is not the first time the Diamondbacks have had to navigate injuries at the start of a season; last year, they opened without key players Eduardo Rodriguez and Paul Sewald. As the team gears up for the regular season opener against the Chicago Cubs, the focus remains on maintaining health to maximize their chances for success.

As the MLB off-season unfolds, projections from ZiPS and Steamer are being analyzed at Arizona Diamondbacks On SI, focusing on the performance expectations for each member of the team. The site aims to provide a comprehensive overview of players by averaging projections and assessing individual contributions based on rate statistics and playing time.

The evaluation extends beyond the 26-man roster typically utilized on Opening Day, encompassing the entire 40-man roster and including promising minor-leaguers and prospects that may impact the Diamondbacks' 162-game season.

The Philadelphia Phillies are navigating a quiet offseason, reflecting on a disappointing playoff exit last year. With high hopes heading into the postseason, the Phillies fell short, winning only one game against the New York Mets in the NLDS. Major issues, particularly in the outfield and a struggling bullpen, were significant factors in their early exit from the playoffs. Although changes have been limited, the organization did make an important addition to their bullpen by signing Jordan Romano from the Toronto Blue Jays.

While the Phillies faced free agency losses with two relief pitchers, they have made moves to revamp their bullpen without a significant overhaul of their outfield. With Jeff Hoffman reportedly signing with the Blue Jays, there remains interest in Carlos Estevez, who is still available in the free agency market. Estevez has been identified as a strategic fit for the Arizona Diamondbacks, who are also looking to bolster their bullpen. The Diamondbacks recently signed Corbin Burnes, indicating their ambitions for the upcoming season.

Despite the changes, the Phillies should consider retaining Estevez to strengthen their bullpen. With Romano as the new closer, the Phillies will rely on Orion Kerkering in high-leverage situations, an important yet challenging role for a young player. The franchise aims to compete effectively in the National League, making the retention of Estevez a worthwhile consideration as they look to enhance their competitive edge.