Can the Arizona Diamondbacks reclaim their playoff glory? It’s a question that’s been haunting fans for two long years, ever since their thrilling 2023 World Series run. Back then, the team’s chaotic, small-ball strategy seemed unstoppable, but recent seasons have left supporters like Robin Hollowell yearning for a return to that winning formula. Hollowell, a die-hard fan who witnessed the team’s last postseason victory in Arlington, Texas, recalls the euphoria of that era: ‘It was one of the best feelings I’ve ever had.’ But here’s where it gets controversial: while some fans believe the team’s identity lies in its ability to ‘create chaos,’ others argue that this approach may no longer be sustainable in today’s MLB landscape.
A recent survey by Cronkite News polled 24 fans, including Hollowell, on their expectations for the 2026 season. The results reveal a fanbase divided yet hopeful. When asked to rate their confidence in the team on a scale of 1 to 5, responses were mixed, with many echoing Micheal Sebastian’s sentiment: ‘We have to go back to our identity of creating chaos.’ Sebastian, a long-time supporter from Mesa, believes in manager Torey Lovullo’s ability to lead, though he acknowledges the bullpen remains a weak spot. But this is the part most people miss: Lovullo, the franchise’s all-time wins leader, has faced relentless criticism for his bullpen management, despite navigating a roster plagued by injuries to key players like A.J. Puk, Justin Martinez, and Corbin Burnes.
John Haake, a former Cubs fan turned Diamondbacks enthusiast, agrees that the team’s chaotic style is ingrained in its DNA: ‘Chaos runs in their blood at this point.’ Meanwhile, Greg Hilliard, a former copy editor for the Arizona Republic, highlights the team’s strengths, particularly its star-studded infield featuring Corbin Carroll, Ketel Marte, Geraldo Perdomo, and the newly acquired Nolan Arenado. Yet, Hilliard admits the outfield and bullpen still need significant improvement. And this is where it gets even more contentious: while fans appreciate owner Ken Kendrick’s recent investments, questions linger about Arenado’s consistency and the outfield’s injury-prone status, with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. still recovering from a torn ACL.
The survey also sparked heated debates about Lovullo’s leadership. While some, like Sebastian, defend his track record, others, like Hollowell, criticize his pitching decisions: ‘The guy has some of the most questionable pitching choices I’ve ever seen.’ Adding to the uncertainty, the pitching staff remains a major concern, with Puk, Burnes, and Martinez still rehabbing from Tommy John surgeries, and former ace Zac Gallen’s future with the team in limbo. Pitchers like Ryne Nelson, Brandon Pfaadt, and Michael Soroka will need to step up in 2026, but will it be enough?
Amidst all this, there’s a glimmer of hope: the upcoming renovations to Chase Field. Ten out of 24 respondents expressed excitement about the modernization of the aging ballpark, which opened in 1998. Haake, for one, is thrilled: ‘Modern amenities in an older ballpark have always been something I’m fond of.’ Hollowell, meanwhile, is nostalgic for the return of the out-of-town scoreboard and its iconic clock: ‘That was part of the charm of the old Bank One Ballpark.’
So, as the Diamondbacks gear up for 2026, the question remains: Can they recapture the magic of 2023, or is their chaotic style a relic of the past? Is Lovullo the right man to lead them, or is a change in management overdue? And what about the outfield and bullpen—will they be the team’s downfall, or can new additions like Carlos Santana and Michael Soroka turn things around? We want to hear from you: What’s your take on the Diamondbacks’ future? Do you believe in their ability to ‘create chaos,’ or is it time for a new strategy? Let us know in the comments!
