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2026 Dbacks Postmortem Part 2: What Went Wrong?

The Arizona Diamondbacks missed the postseason despite securing 86 victories in 2026. An analytical review identifies the collapse of the starting rotation as the primary factor, accounting for a 7.8-win deficit against preseason projections.

Merrill Kelly struggled significantly, while Zac Gallen saw his effectiveness drop sharply as hitters adjusted to his pitching style. Corbin Burnes contributed minimally due to injury, leaving Eduardo Rodriguez and Michael Soroka to provide the only stability in a unit that allowed high-quality contact throughout the year.

Additional offensive struggles at first base, left field, and designated hitter further hampered the team's performance, with Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and Max Kepler among those involved.

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