Shutting down potent offense after potent offense, the Arizona Diamondbacks have watched their starters give them quality innings before handing the ball off to a trio of relievers that have been virtually unhittable this postseason on their journey to the World Series.
After holding Los Angeles Dodgers superstar outfielder Mookie Betts and first baseman Freddie Freeman to a combined one for 21 at the plate, the pitching staff followed that up by holding Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner, first baseman Bryce Harper and outfielders Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos to a combined 1-28 in games six and seven of the National League Championship Series helping fuel their comeback.
With another offense capable of putting up runs in bunches in the Texas Rangers, these three relievers will play huge roles in deciding the World Series in 2023.
Paul Sewald, relief pitcher:
(1-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.50 WHIP, six saves, 11 strikeouts in eight innings pitched)
Acquired at the trade deadline from the Seattle Mariners, Sewald has provided the Diamondbacks with the veteran closer they desperately needed.
Now fast forward to the postseason and he has been giving opposing hitters fits surrendering only three hits in his eight innings pitched and has not allowed a run.
Not a hard thrower when compared to the league average, Sewald is able to use his breaking ball and accuracy to help offset the lower velocity of his pitches.