The Arizona Diamondbacks manufactured runs and flexed defensive grit to stun the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.
The Arizona Diamondbacks accomplished something few expected over the weekend.
They swept the Los Angeles Dodgers in a three-game series at Dodger Stadium, one of the toughest places in MLB to win.
After being swept by the Dodgers in the first series between the two teams this season, Arizona has battled back to even the season series at 5-5.
The sweep was impressive.
It also revealed several encouraging signs while reminding everyone that some concerns still remain.
Considering the Diamondbacks scored 23 runs and outscored Los Angeles 23-8 across the three games, it would be easy to assume they dominated with runners in scoring position.
That was not the case.
Arizona finished just 6-for-32 with runners in scoring position during the series, good for a .188 batting average in that situation.
Instead, the offense found different ways to score.
The Diamondbacks worked walks, reached base on defensive errors, and manufactured runs through sacrifice flies, bunts, and RBI ground balls.
They also delivered the timely power they needed.
Arizona hit five home runs during the series, with James McCann and Tim Tawa each contributing two.
When the Diamondbacks could not capitalize with runners in scoring position, they compensated by playing fundamentally sound baseball and delivering the occasional big swing.
The series also highlighted an unexpected contributor.
Arizona still lacks a permanent everyday first baseman, and the recent DFA of Pavin Smith only reduced the available options.
Tawa responded with perhaps his best series of the season.
Tawa collected seven hits, including two home runs and two doubles.
He scored three runs, totaled 15 bases, and drove in seven of Arizona’s 23 runs while also providing solid defense at first base.
His batting average climbed from .155 to .214, while his OPS improved from .495 to .676.
His numbers remain modest overall, but his performance against one of MLB’s best teams represented meaningful progress.
The Diamondbacks also rediscovered the defensive identity that helped define the team in previous seasons.
That was especially evident during the sixth inning of the series finale on Sunday.
Geraldo Perdomo made a fully extended diving throw to retire Mookie Betts at first base.
Moments later, the Diamondbacks converged on a shallow fly ball before Nolan Arenado followed with a spectacular diving play at third base.
Arizona looked like a team that could sense a sweep within reach.
Not everything went well.
Corbin Carroll endured a difficult series, going 0-for-12 while continuing to struggle against fastballs, including pitches located over the plate.
His OPS has fallen to .825 after spending much of the season above .900.
Although Arizona managed to complete the sweep without significant offensive production from its star outfielder. However, his prolonged slump has become a legitimate concern.
The upcoming break could help if Carroll is dealing with lingering physical issues. That said, the Diamondbacks will need him to rediscover his form as they continue their push toward the postseason.
Tawa’s breakout series reflected many of the qualities that have kept the Diamondbacks encouraged despite his early struggles.
He plays with confidence, embraces difficult defensive assignments, and brings energy every time he steps on the field.
His willingness to make adjustments has also stood out, allowing him to stay prepared even while his opportunities have fluctuated throughout the season.
Tawa’s versatility gives Arizona valuable flexibility, and his competitive approach allows him to contribute in several different ways beyond the batter’s box.
Players with that mindset often earn larger roles over time because they consistently find ways to impact games.
Can he continue building on the confidence he displayed against the Dodgers?
If he can, the Diamondbacks could have discovered another valuable piece capable of helping the team during the second half.
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