What is the performance of overperforming MLB teams in the playoffs?
The Arizona Diamondbacks have had a strong start to the season, holding a half-game lead in the NL West and looking poised to reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017.
Despite most AZ sportsbooks predicting the D’backs would only win 75.5 games, they are currently in a playoff position and on track to win 89 games. BetArizona examined the history of teams with projected win totals below .500 that made the playoffs since the MLB added two wild card spots in 2012, and analyzed their performance.
We utilized data from MLB.com in conjunction with the preseason win totals provided by SportsOddsHistory.com.
Kindly be aware that data from 2020 has been excluded due to the shortened season and expanded playoff format. Keep following BetArizona for additional research articles and updates on Arizona betting apps.
What is the ranking of the 2023 D-Backs among recent surprising stories in MLB?
The Arizona Diamondbacks have surpassed their preseason win total by 13.5 games, ranking them as the 14th biggest overachiever in the past decade. They are positioned between the 2017 Rockies, who exceeded their win total by 16.5 games, and the 2021 Red Sox, who exceeded theirs by 10.5 games.
Since 2012, the Orioles have consistently exceeded expectations, finishing the 2012 season with a record of 93-69, far surpassing their preseason win total of 69. This impressive performance resulted in a +24 finish overall for the team.
The 2021 Giants, along with the 2012 and 2018 A’s, are some of the most unforgettable Cinderella stories in MLB history, surpassing their preseason win totals by impressive margins. As the Arizona Diamondbacks continue through the second half of the regular season, they have a tough act to follow. Before placing any bets on the D’backs, make sure to explore the promotions offered by Arizona sportsbooks.
The D’backs’ strong performance in 2023 is thanks to the impressive showing of their hitters under the guidance of manager Torrey Lovullo. Rookie standout Corbin Carroll has emerged as a key player, leading the team in WAR production with 3.6. Furthermore, Arizona has ranked sixth in runs scored (437) and slugging percentage (.430) this season.
The D’backs will have to keep a close eye on their tough schedule as they near the end of the season, as Tankathon has listed Arizona as having the 10th most difficult strength of schedule in the league at .506.
If Carroll can quickly recover from his shoulder injury suffered during Thursday night’s 9-0 loss to the Mets, the D’backs could have a chance to make history this fall as long as the team continues its winning streak.
Lovullo and his team can find solace in the fact that they have positioned themselves to potentially be a significant surprise in the 2023 MLB season, as indicated by betting sites in Arizona, prior to the All-Star break.
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Author
Peterson Christopher has been reporting on sports and sports betting in Arizona for more than seven years. He has previously worked for ArizonaSports.com, the Tucson Weekly, and the Green Valley News. Currently, he is the lead writer at yengols.com.
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