Diamondbacks' Team Preview: Life After Upton

2013 Diamondbacks Preview

Expectations were high for the Diamondbacks entering 2012, as the team was coming off of a postseason trip that ended in extra frames during a decisive Game 5 of the NLDS in Milwaukee. With enviable starting pitching depth, and complementary pieces emerging in the form of Paul Goldschmidt and late-2011 acquisition Aaron Hill, the D-Backs looked to be positioned for another trip to the postseason as one of the National League's more balanced squads.

Instead of returning to the playoffs, Arizona finished 81-81, a disappointing third place in the NL West. The left side of the infield was ravaged by injuries and ineffectiveness, thanks in large part to Stephen Drew's longer-than-expected recovery from ankle surgery, and Ryan Roberts' rapid regression. The rotation failed to meet expectations, as Dan Hudson made just nine starts before requiring Tommy John surgery, while young phenom Trevor Bauer was unable to match his success f

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